China expands port fees on U.S.-linked vessels

China has expanded its port fee policy on vessels linked to the United States. The new rule now applies to shipping lines where U.S. investors hold more than a 25% ownership share.

The total cost of these charges could reach around $2.3 billion in the first year, compared with about $1.2 billion in U.S. port fees that affect Chinese operators. Ships built in China will, however, remain exempt from these new fees.

The updated charges started at CNY 400 (around USD 56) per net tonne on 14 October and will gradually increase by CNY 140 (about USD 20) each year over the next three years. These fees are applied per voyage and are limited to five voyages per year.

Meanwhile, the United States has announced plans to impose an additional 100% import tariff on Chinese goods from 1 November, in response to China’s new export controls on rare earth minerals – critical materials used in electronics, automotive and renewable energy sectors.

We continue to monitor trade policy changes closely, helping our customers stay informed, compliant and confident in every shipment.

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