Overview

• Reciprocal port and harbor fees from both countries took effect Tuesday, with China targeting ships tied to US ownership, operation, construction or flag, and granting exemptions for China‑built vessels and empty ships entering for repairs.
• China’s Commerce Ministry said the rare‑earth export controls serve national security and do not constitute a ban, asserting the United States was informed, a claim Washington disputes.
• US Trade Representative Jamison Greer said the US learned of the controls from public sources and that a requested telephone call was refused or postponed by Beijing.
• President Trump has threatened additional 100% tariffs on Chinese imports starting November 1, later striking a more conciliatory public tone without retracting the tariff plan.
• Analysts warn the maritime measures could distort freight flows, with estimates that roughly 13% of the global tanker fleet and 11% of container ships are affected, as markets swing on signs of escalation or restraint.