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5h ago

U.S. and China Start Reciprocal Port Fees as Trade Fight Hits Shipping

Washington frames the levies as a push to counter China’s shipbuilding dominance, with analysts expecting higher costs rather than rapid shifts in ordering patterns.

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Overview

  • The United States began charging special fees on China-linked vessels, assessed per U.S. port call and capped at five voyages per ship each year.
  • China started reciprocal levies on U.S.-owned, -operated, -built or -flagged ships, exempted China-built vessels and repair calls, and applied collection at the first port of entry.
  • Beijing’s policy reaches entities with 25% or more U.S. ownership or control, broadening the share of the global fleet subject to the new charges.
  • Washington also raised tariffs sharply on Chinese-made port cranes and related equipment, with combined rates reaching as high as 270%.
  • Analysts expect sizable near-term costs for carriers, with COSCO seen bearing a large portion, while companies explore rerouting and ship swaps as President Trump threatens further 100% tariffs and export controls.