Overview

• The U.S. Trade Representative has finished public hearings on a proposal to impose port fees of up to $1.5 million per call on Chinese-built ships.
• The policy aims to counter China's dominance in shipbuilding and bolster the U.S. shipbuilding industry, which produces only five ships annually compared to China's 1,700.
• Critics, including agriculture and energy groups, argue the fees could raise shipping costs, disrupt supply chains, and harm U.S. exporters' global competitiveness.
• Supporters highlight national security concerns and the need to reduce reliance on Chinese manufacturing, with 72% of Americans backing the initiative according to a recent survey.
• The administration is now reviewing industry feedback, with a decision on the policy expected in the coming weeks.