š„Breaking News: U.S. Declares Maritime War on China!
šThe most aggressive shipping policy in decades just launched ā here's what it really means.
š„ Greetings, Maritime Mavericks!
For years, China quietly took control of the shipbuilding world ā constructing 80% of the global fleet and dominating everything from ship-to-shore cranes to container chassis.
Now, the U.S. is pushing back.
On April 17, 2025, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) enacted a historic Section 301 action targeting Chinaās maritime dominance ā and it comes with fees up to $20 million per port call for some vessels.
Letās break down exactly who pays what ā and why the industry is entering a new era of port strategy, vessel shuffling, and policy-driven fleet design.
1-Chinese-Owned or Operated Vessels
2-Chinese-Built Vessels Operated by Other Carriers
3-Car Carrier Vessels
4-LNG Vessels
Smart Exceptions You Need to Know
How to Avoid the Fees?
Maritime Analytica Insight
Conclusion: A New Era of Trade by Design
š Development: The Fees ā and How They Work in Real Life
The new policy introduces four different fee structures. Only one applies per ship, based on build origin, operator, and vessel type.
š“ 1. Chinese-Owned or Operated Vessels (Tier 1)
š Applies to ships operated or owned by Chinese companies (like COSCO), regardless of where the ship was built.
Oct 2025: $50 per net ton
2026: $80
2027: $110
2028: $140
š” A 100,000-ton COSCO ship in 2028 = $14 million per call
ā±ļø Capped at 5 U.S. calls per vessel annually
š Note: Fee applies per U.S. entry ā not per port. Calling 4 U.S. ports in 1 voyage = 1 fee.
š” 2. Chinese-Built Vessels Operated by Other Carriers (Tier 2)
š Applies to vessels built in China, but operated by non-Chinese firms (e.g., Maersk, MSC, Hapag-Lloyd)