The United States announced a multi-phase scheme for port fees on Chinese-linked shipping based on the size of ships. The reset comes after a wave of opposition during public hearings in March from shippers, exporters and other maritime stakeholders to millions of dollars in fees proposed by the United States Trade Representative. The long-term plan also accommodates what is expected to be a year-long ramping up of domestic shipyard capacity.

China produces about 1,700 ships per year compared to around five for the U.S. In the details of the USTR action, fees on Chinese vessel owners and operators for the first 180 days as of April 17 will be set at $0. In the first phase, after 180 days, the charge will be $50 per net ton per U.S. voyage, increasing incrementally over the following years up to $140 by April 17, 2028. The fee will be charged up to five times per year, per vessel.

Source: US plans phased approach to port fees for Chinese ships – FreightWaves