April 22nd, 2025 – Last Thursday, the United States unveiled a revised, multi-phase fee structure targeting Chinese-linked vessels, aiming to reduce reliance on Chinese shipbuilding while boosting U.S. shipyard capacity. The update follows heavy criticism during March hearings, where shippers and exporters opposed earlier proposals that could have resulted in millions of dollars in fees per ship call.
Starting April 17th, a 180-day grace period sets port fees at $0. After that, Chinese vessel owners will pay $50 per net ton per U.S. voyage, with annual increases reaching $140 by April 2028. The charge applies up to five times annually, per vessel. Chinese-built ships face a separate fee: $18 per net ton after the grace period, rising to $33 by 2028 — or alternatively, $120 to $250 per container, depending on which yields a higher total.
Exemptions apply for U.S.-flagged short-sea carriers, liquid bulk export ships, vessels carrying government cargo, arriving empty, or under specific size thresholds. Ships on routes under 2,000 nautical miles or operating on the Great Lakes are also excluded. U.S.-owned ships, where ownership is at least 75% domestic, are exempt as well.
Operators can receive a three-year fee remission if they order and take delivery of a U.S.-built ship of comparable size during that time. A new $150 per car equivalent unit (CEU) fee on foreign-built car carriers will also begin after 180 days.
A second phase, launching in three years, introduces long-term restrictions on transporting LNG via foreign vessels. These will ramp up over 22 years to encourage U.S.-built LNG carriers.
The USTR is also seeking public input on proposed tariffs: 100% on Chinese-made ship-to-shore cranes and up to 100% on containers and chassis. A public hearing is scheduled for May 19.
Despite revisions, opposition remains. Critics warn of higher costs and supply chain disruptions. Nate Herman of the American Apparel and Footwear Association warned the fees could reach $1.5 million per port call, straining consumers and exporters. The World Shipping Council echoed concerns, saying the policy raises costs without significantly reviving U.S. shipbuilding.
Still, some analysts see potential benefits. Xeneta’s Emily Stausboll noted the non-stacked fees may prevent major port congestion and encourage carriers to adapt fleet usage strategically before the charges begin.
