China Rolls Out Special Fees on U.S. Vessels
In a new twist in the Sino-U.S. trade saga, China's Ministry of Transport announced on Friday that it will introduce special port fees on ships owned or operated by U.S. enterprises, organizations and individuals, effective October 14. The move directly counters the U.S. decision to slap additional port fees on Chinese vessels following a Section 301 investigation.
The fee applies to U.S.-owned or -operated vessels, as well as ships with at least 25% U.S. stake (direct or indirect) and all U.S.-flagged and U.S.-built vessels. Starting at 400 yuan (around $56.30) per net tonne, the surcharge will rise each year on April 17 for the next three years.
The ministry described the measure as justified to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese maritime enterprises, accusing the U.S. of violating international trade principles and undermining the China-U.S. maritime transport agreement.
Industry analysts suggest the new fees could nudge shipping costs upward, with ripple effects on global supply chains. For businesses and importers, the extra yuan-per-tonne could translate into higher freight bills and potential price adjustments down the line.
As global citizens weigh the impact, the tug-of-war over port charges highlights how maritime routes have become battlegrounds in the broader trade conflict. China urged the United States to correct its approach and cease suppressing its maritime industry.
With trade tensions escalating on the world's busiest shipping lanes, stakeholders from entrepreneurs to policy wonks will be watching the next port of call in this high-stakes game.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
