USTR fees on Chinese vessels unlikely to affect freight rates

New fees from the US Trade Representative, which target Chinese-owned or controlled vessels in maritime trade, are to take effect on 14 October.

IMAGE: The San Pedro Bay Port Complex, US. Port of Los Angeles

According to BIMCO, the global shipowners’ association, roughly 35% of vessels in the bulk, crude tanker, product tanker, and container fleets could face additional charges when calling at US ports.

These ships collectively represent about 44% of total fleet capacity.

Despite the proportion of affected tonnage, BIMCO said freight rate increases are unlikely, suggesting the fees will have minimal impact on shipping costs for US importers and exporters.

The measures form part of a broader US trade policy initiative designed to reduce reliance on Chinese-controlled maritime assets and promote fair competition across key shipping sectors.

By Gautamee Hazarika

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