The new executive order dovetails with a proposal by the U.S. Trade Representative to charge million-dollar fees on Chinese-built ships upon entry to a U.S. port.

While the U.S. is economically and diplomatically powerful, the country’s fleet of commercial ships is relatively small. 

In addition to the lapses in required approvals, the audit found that Panama Ports used a series of tax-exempt subcontractors to lower the amount it pays to the government.

There’s been quiet optimism among those following the talks that, despite recent U.S. silence about potential new rules, Washington won’t derail the process.

The U.S. government introduced a 25% tariff on imported cars, which went into effect on April 3.

While Newsom cannot enter binding international agreements with foreign nations, the governor can pursue informal partnerships and export promotion efforts such as state-led trade missions.

The group signed six agreements, including on maritime transport cooperation to boost connectivity between South and Southeast Asia and disaster prevention.

The levies, part of a broader trade war, are expected to upend supply chains and add thousands of dollars in costs to most vehicle models.

The near century-old de minimis loophole helped startup marketplaces like Temu and Shein expand rapidly in the U.S. 

Just four made-in-China bulkers — ships that ferry everything from coal to salt — were sold in the second-hand market in March.