US Plans New Docking Fees Targeting Ships Linked to China
The United States is considering a new policy that would impose fees on ships docking at its ports if they are part of a fleet that includes vessels built in China or flying the Chinese flag. This move is part of a draft executive order aimed at boosting domestic shipbuilding and reducing China’s influence over the global shipping market.
The initiative, which is being discussed by President Donald Trump’s administration, highlights a growing concern among U.S. lawmakers, both Republican and Democrat, about China’s increasing control of maritime trade and the decreasing readiness of the U.S. Navy.
Currently, Chinese shipbuilders produce over half of the world’s merchant vessel cargo capacity. This rise is substantial compared to just 5% in 1999 and has come at the expense of shipbuilders in Japan and South Korea. In contrast, U.S. shipbuilding has dramatically declined since its peak in the 1970s.
The draft order, dated February 27, suggests that any ship entering a U.S. port could face these fees as long as it is part of a fleet that includes Chinese-built or flagged vessels. As of now, there has been no response from U.S. or Chinese officials regarding this proposal.
