China Begins Charging Port Fees on US Linked Ships in Escalation of Trade Conflict
China is imposing new port fees on vessels linked to the United States as trade tensions intensify between the two nations. Effective October 14, 2025, ships that are U.S.-owned, U.S.-operated, U.S.-flagged, or U.S.-built will face a port fee of 400 yuan (roughly USD 56) per net tonne when docking at Chinese ports. Those fees will increase in phases, rising to 640 yuan per net tonne in April 2026, 880 yuan in April 2027, and finally 1,120 yuan in April 2028.
The policy is Beijing’s retaliatory response to U.S. measures that target ships with Chinese links, including proposals to levy additional port dues and restrictions designed to weaken China’s dominance in global shipbuilding and maritime logistics. China has made exemptions for certain vessels, such as ships built in China, empty ones entering Chinese shipyards for repairs, and others specifically excluded under the transport ministry’s rules.
Shipping industry analysts warn that these fees could raise costs for U.S. shipping companies and operators, particularly those with vessels built in or flagged under the U.S., or with significant U.S. ownership. Global freight flow patterns could shift as carriers adjust routes or flagging to avoid or minimize fees. The broader context is a worsening trade war that includes increased U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods and Chinese export controls.
