- The U.S. is reconsidering proposed fees of up to $3 million per port call on Chinese-linked vessels after industry backlash.
- Sectors like agriculture and energy warn the fees could disrupt supply chains reliant on Chinese-built ships.
- Officials may scale back or delay the fees, with final decisions expected later this year.
The U.S. government is reconsidering a proposed plan to impose significant port fees on vessels linked to China, following strong opposition from key industry sectors, reports Reuters.
US considers adjusting port fee plan
Originally, the policy aimed to charge up to $3 million per port call for ships built in China or operated by Chinese-linked companies. The initiative was part of a broader strategy to counter China’s influence in global shipping and support domestic shipbuilding.
However, industries such as agriculture, energy, and logistics raised concerns that the fees would disrupt essential supply chains. Many companies rely heavily on Chinese-built or flagged vessels, and stakeholders argued the proposal could have severe economic consequences.
In response, officials are now exploring several alternatives. These include scaling back the fees, delaying their implementation, or adjusting the structure to account for factors like vessel size or the proportion of Chinese-built ships in a company’s fleet. The government has also clarified that the proposed fees would not necessarily apply cumulatively or across entire fleets.
The administration is currently reviewing public feedback and testimonies to strike a balance between national security, economic impact, and industrial policy. A final decision on the plan is expected later this year.
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Source: Reuters
