- China and the U.S. have imposed reciprocal port tariffs, escalating maritime tensions and reshaping global trade routes.
- China’s new fee targets vessels with U.S. ownership or links, adding costs and prompting charterers to prefer non-U.S. fleets.
- The U.S. has responded with matching port fees and a 100% tariff on Chinese imports, amplifying the strain on seaborne trade.
- Washington’s warning of sanctions tied to the IMO’s Net Zero Framework highlights how trade and climate policy are becoming instruments of geopolitical strategy.
Geopolitical tensions between the United States and China are increasingly influencing global shipping dynamics, with both nations introducing new port tariffs that could reshape trade routes and ownership structures. China’s latest countermeasure—a special port fee targeting U.S.-linked vessels—reflects a growing maritime standoff that is sending ripples through global freight markets. This escalating policy exchange underscores the mounting use of trade and transport as tools of geopolitical strategy, according to the latest commentary by Xclusiv Shipbrokers, published by Safety4Sea.
China’s Maritime Counterpunch and Its Economic Reach
China’s response to Washington’s planned port dues includes a new port fee that applies to vessels with U.S. ownership, operation, or significant investment links. The fee begins at CNY 400 per net tonne per voyage and will progressively increase to CNY 1,120 by 2028. While the charge applies only once per voyage at the first Chinese port, its cost implications are substantial—especially for vessels under U.S.-listed ownership or management. Industry data show that while only a small percentage of ships are U.S.-flagged or built, a larger share falls under U.S. ownership, meaning many fleets could be affected. The measure not only raises voyage expenses but may also prompt charterers to favor vessels with “clean” or non-U.S. ownership structures to avoid additional costs.
Shifting Trade Patterns and Emerging Risks
The repercussions extend across vessel segments, from dry bulk and tankers to container and gas carriers. Tankers, for instance, could see utilisation disruptions as charterers seek neutral ownership to sidestep compliance risks. Container trades face potential slowdown if the 100% U.S. tariff dampens Transpacific volumes, while gas carriers remain vulnerable due to their ownership exposure. Meanwhile, the U.S. has mirrored China’s approach by imposing similar fees on Chinese-linked vessels, intensifying the spiral of maritime taxation. Beyond tariffs, Washington’s recent warning of sanctions against countries supporting the IMO’s Net Zero Framework adds another layer of uncertainty. Together, these developments mark a shift in shipping’s role—from a neutral facilitator of global trade to an active instrument of geopolitical influence.
Did you subscribe to our Daily newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Safety4Sea
