US, China begin imposing port fees, escalating trade war

ByEnigma 808

The US and China are set to impose additional port fees on ocean shipping firms starting Tuesday, escalating the trade war between the two largest economies. China began charging extra fees on US-owned, operated, or flagged vessels, but excluded Chinese-built ships and empty vessels entering Chinese shipyards for repairs.

China’s fees will be applied at the first port of entry for a voyage or for the first five voyages within a year. Meanwhile, the US plans to begin its own fees on October 14. Analysts predict China-owned carrier COSCO will face the largest impact, with fees potentially costing $3.2 billion in 2026.

The back-and-forth tariffs on shipping threaten to disrupt global freight flows. US officials have also warned of sanctions or vessel charges for countries supporting an International Maritime Organization plan to reduce shipping emissions. This intensifies the shift of shipping from a neutral business sector to a tool of international diplomacy.

Shares in China’s COSCO saw a rise following news of its share buyback program, although the company has not commented on the potential effect of the new fees.

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    Besides writing and being a content creator, Enigma 808 sometimes likes to watch paint dry on walls, listening to ASMR while timing snails racing. Such is life.