Revised port fee structure eases burden on exporters, excludes key vessel categories.
The U.S. government has revised its controversial port fee proposal for China-built vessels after facing strong backlash from shipping industry stakeholders. The original plan, which suggested port call charges of up to $1.5 million, drew criticism over potential price hikes on U.S. exports and consumer goods.
Announced by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), the new fee structure aims to balance trade fairness with support for domestic exporters, particularly in the Great Lakes, Caribbean, and U.S. territories. The revised policy introduces phased implementation and exempts several categories of ships from the charges.
Key exemptions include vessels transporting goods between domestic ports, ships operating between U.S. ports and the Caribbean, and empty vessels arriving to load U.S. exports such as wheat and soybeans. American and Canadian ships calling at Great Lakes ports are also excluded.
Under the new system, Chinese-built and -owned vessels will incur a charge of $50 per net tonne starting October 14, increasing by $30 annually over three years. Non-Chinese companies using Chinese-built ships will face a lower starting fee of $18 per net tonne, with a $5 annual increment.
Rejecting a flat fee model, the USTR has opted for a net tonnage or per-container structure to avoid penalising smaller operators. Additionally, LNG carriers will gradually be required to transport U.S. LNG on U.S.-built vessels, with targets set through 2047.
The revised plan follows a yearlong investigation by USTR into China’s maritime practices, which concluded that China employs unfair tactics to dominate global shipping. While shipbuilding unions welcomed the policy shift, the American Apparel & Footwear Association warned of potential cost impacts on U.S. consumers. The changes are set to take effect within 180 days.
Source: Ship technology
