Beijing officially released detailed regulations for a new special port fee targeting vessels connected with the United States. The policy, published by the State Council Information Office (SCIO), outlines how the fee will be calculated, who must pay it, and which ships may be exempted. This move is seen as part of China’s evolving maritime and trade measures amid ongoing U.S.-China economic tensions.
Phased Fee Structure and Applicability
According to the new regulation, the special port fee will apply once per voyage, but only at the first Chinese port of call. The fee is structured to increase gradually over the next few years:
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400 yuan per net registered ton starting October 14, 2025
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640 yuan from April 17, 2026
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880 yuan from April 17, 2027
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1,120 yuan from April 17, 2028
Additionally, each vessel will be subject to a cap of five chargeable voyages per fiscal year, which begins on April 17 annually. The levy applies to vessels that are owned, operated, or managed by U.S. entities, or where U.S. individuals hold 25% or more ownership, voting rights, or board representation. Ships flying the U.S. flag or built in the United States also fall under the new rule.
Exemptions and Operational Procedures
Certain vessels are exempt from the new fee. These include Chinese-origin ships, even if they meet U.S. ownership criteria, as well as vessels entering China solely for repairs or other special cases defined by the regulation.
Operationally, shipowners must submit a vessel declaration seven days before arrival (or upon departure from the previous port for shorter voyages), detailing the vessel’s ownership, flag, construction, and intended Chinese ports of call. Payment of the port fee must occur at the first port of entry, and failure to do so will result in denial of entry or exit from Chinese ports. Ships that leave China with unpaid dues must settle the balance before their next arrival.
China’s new special port fee marks a significant development in maritime trade policy, particularly affecting vessels with U.S. links. By establishing clear guidelines for calculation, payment, and exemptions, Beijing aims to strengthen its control over maritime operations related to American entities. The phased implementation schedule gives shipping companies time to adjust, but the financial and diplomatic implications of this move are likely to attract global attention in the months ahead.
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Source: PORT NEWS
