Global shipping lines are adjusting fleet strategies in anticipation of new U.S. port fees directed at vessels linked to China. Set to take effect on October 14, 2025, the policy introduces tiered charges with penalties for non-compliance including denial of port access and suspension of cargo operations.

The initiative led by the U.S. Trade Representative, aims to reduce reliance on Chinese-built ships and support domestic shipbuilding. Industry reactions are mixed – some stakeholders welcome the shift while others warn of potential disruptions, increased costs, and reduced routing flexibility.

To mitigate exposure, several carriers are already rerouting services. The Premier Alliance is restructuring its Asia-Mediterranean and Gulf services to remove Chinese-built vessels from U.S. rotations. OOCL and COSCO are launching alternative routes, and Maersk has committed to excluding Chinese-built ships from its U.S. trades.

The policy includes exemptions for select vessel types and will be supported by a new digital payment platform under development by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. 

Source: splash247.com