China Imposes Reciprocal Port Fees As Trade Tensions Rise
Beijing has announced a reciprocal port fee policy for American vessels entering Chinese ports, mirroring recent measures by the US Trade Representative (USTR) against Chinese ships and shipowners. Both policies take effect today, signaling escalating economic tensions between the two nations.
Under the new Chinese rules, the fees apply to ships that are US built or flagged, as well as those owned or operated by US entities or individuals with at least a 25% stake. However, vessels calling at multiple Chinese ports during the same voyage will only be charged at their first port of entry, and each ship will face a maximum of five charges per calendar year.
The new fee structure matches that of the USTR, starting at RMB 400 (approximately £42) per net tonne and increasing annually to reach RMB 1,120 (£120) by 2028.
The move comes just weeks before the expiration of the current tariff truce between Washington and Beijing, heightening fears of a renewed trade war. Tensions have intensified following China’s tightening of rare earth exports and President Trump’s threat to impose an additional 100% tariff on Chinese goods.
Meanwhile, new U.S. tariffs on imported timber, kitchen cabinets, and upholstered furniture – many sourced from China – also take effect today.
Despite the growing friction, Presidents Trump and Xi Jinping are still expected to meet in South Korea later this month, which will hopefully lead to a de-escalation of the recent trade tension.
The team at Atlantic Pacific are monitoring developments closely.
