Proposed U.S. Port Fees on Chinese-Built Ships Threaten Global Shipping Costs

Shipping leaders warn that new U.S. tariffs and port fees could disrupt trade routes, increase consumer prices, and reshape global supply chains.

The U.S. government has proposed port entry fees of up to $1.5 million for Chinese-built and -operated ships, potentially increasing container shipping costs by 20-25%.
Shipping executives, including MSC and CMA CGM, caution that the fees could force carriers to reduce port calls, reroute trade lines, or pass costs to consumers.
The proposal is part of broader U.S. trade measures, including new tariffs on goods from China, Mexico, Canada, and the European Union, raising concerns about inflation and trade slowdowns.
Freight rates have already dropped significantly in 2025, with experts predicting further volatility due to geopolitical tensions and overcapacity in the shipping industry.
Global supply chains are adapting to diversify sourcing away from China, with companies expanding production in countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, and Turkey.