The Chinese Ministry of Transport has announced a new regulation to take effect from October 14, 2025. Under this policy, certain vessels with links to the United States will face special port charges, marking a significant development in maritime trade regulations.
Details of the Policy
The new regulation applies to vessels that meet any of the following conditions:
- Owned or operated by U.S. companies, organizations, or individuals.
- Owned or operated by entities with 25% or more U.S. equity, voting rights, or board representation.
- Flying the U.S. flag.
- Built in the United States.
Charging Mechanism
The special port charges will be collected at the vessel’s first port of call in China during each voyage. Subsequent Chinese ports visited in the same voyage will not impose additional charges. Key rules include:
- Charges apply once per voyage.
- Each vessel can be charged a maximum of five times per calendar year.
- Implementation details such as charge rates, collection process, and exemptions will be released separately by China’s Ministry of Transport.
Why This Policy Is Being Introduced
This decision is seen as part of the ongoing trade and geopolitical tensions between China and the United States. It may influence shipping patterns, cost structures for maritime transport, and could lead to adjustments in trade logistics for U.S.-linked operations.
Potential Impact
- Increased shipping costs for vessels linked to the U.S.
- Possible rerouting of vessels to avoid charges.
- Heightened scrutiny of ownership structures and vessel registration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- When will the charges start?
- October 14, 2025.
- Which vessels are affected?
- Vessels owned or operated by U.S. entities, vessels with 25%+ U.S. equity, vessels flying the U.S. flag, and vessels built in the U.S.
- How often can a vessel be charged?
- Charges are capped at five per vessel each year.
- Where will charges be applied?
- At the vessel’s first port of call in China during each voyage.
Update: China Announces Tiered Port Charges for U.S.-Linked Ships
China’s Ministry of Transport has introduced new port charges on vessels linked to the United States, effective October 14, 2025. Ships calling at Chinese ports will be required to pay 400 yuan (around $56.09) per net ton initially.
The rates will rise gradually over the next three years increasing to 640 yuan ($89.81) from April 17, 2026, 880 yuan ($123.43) from April 17, 2027, and 1,120 yuan ($157.05) per net ton starting April 17, 2028. This move marks a structured escalation in port fees for U.S.-associated vessels operating in Chinese waters.
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