China has officially announced the introduction of “Special Port Dues” targeting vessels connected to the United States, in a direct reciprocal measure responding to recent American maritime and trade restrictions.
Effective October 14, 2025, ships that are U.S.-flagged, built in the United States, or owned or operated by entities with significant U.S. shareholding will face additional port dues when calling at Chinese ports.
The new tariff will start at RMB 400 per net ton and will progressively increase to RMB 1,120 per ton by April 2028. Intermediate adjustments will occur in April 2026 (RMB 640) and April 2027 (RMB 880), following a phased implementation schedule.
According to the Chinese Ministry of Transport, the measure aims to “restore balance” and “protect fair competition” in response to Washington’s unilateral policies that have impacted the global shipping and logistics chain. The ministry emphasized that the decision is lawful, proportionate, and defensive in nature, reflecting the principle of reciprocity in international trade.
China’s move is also symbolic—it underscores Beijing’s readiness to defend its maritime interests while signaling an openness to dialogue if parity is respected.
Industry observers note that this policy could significantly affect U.S.-linked shipping operators, particularly in the dry bulk and tanker sectors, where exposure to Chinese ports remains substantial. The step also mirrors Washington’s own port fee measures targeting vessels associated with Chinese ownership or investment.
Analysts interpret this as part of a broader strategic contest in global shipping governance, where both powers are leveraging maritime regulations to influence trade dynamics and protect domestic industries.
With global supply chains already strained by geopolitical tensions, the new charges mark a pivotal development in the ongoing maritime power realignment between the world’s two largest economies.
