China Hits Back at U.S. With New Port Fees on American Ships
China’s transport ministry announced on Friday that ships owned, operated, or built by U.S. companies or individuals — or flying the U.S. flag — will face additional port fees starting Tuesday. The move comes as a direct countermeasure to new U.S. port charges imposed on Chinese vessels.
The ministry said the decision was aimed at protecting the country’s shipping interests after the United States introduced new tariffs targeting Chinese ships. The dispute is the latest flashpoint in the U.S.–China trade conflict, which continues to escalate despite earlier attempts at easing tensions.
President Donald Trump said there was “no reason” to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping later this month in South Korea, adding that the U.S. is preparing a major tariff increase on Chinese imports. Trump also accused China of threatening export controls on rare earth materials, which are critical for global manufacturing and technology industries.
U.S. and China Trade Port Fees Amid Escalating Tensions
Starting October 14, ships built in China or operated by Chinese firms will also be charged new port entry fees in the United States. According to industry analysts, the cost could exceed $1 million per voyage for large container ships and may rise annually through 2028.
China’s reciprocal policy will impose a flat rate of 400 yuan ($56) per net metric ton for U.S. vessels docking at Chinese ports, increasing to 640 yuan ($89) in 2026, 880 yuan ($123) in 2027, and 1,120 yuan ($157) by 2028.
The Chinese transport ministry condemned the U.S. measures as “discriminatory,” arguing that they disrupt global trade and undermine the stability of the international shipping industry. In a separate statement, the Commerce Ministry described the new Chinese port fees as a “justified act of self-defense.”
Global Shipping Industry Faces Higher Costs
Industry experts warn that both sides’ actions could raise global shipping costs, disrupt supply chains, and hurt exporters and consumers worldwide.
Joe Kramek, president of the World Shipping Association, said the new fees “add further complexity and cost to the global network that keeps goods moving.”
China has emerged as the world’s largest shipbuilder, producing more than 1,000 commercial vessels last year — compared to fewer than ten in the U.S., according to industry data. The ongoing standoff is expected to strain trade routes and increase operational costs for carriers across both nations.
Tensions between Beijing and Washington have intensified since September, as both sides move further away from their short-lived trade truce. Analysts say the escalating tariff war has already reduced U.S. agricultural and energy exports to China, and the new port fees could deepen the economic divide even further.
