China-US Shipping Tensions Escalate: China Announces Countermeasures Against U.S. Vessels

TradingKey - On the afternoon of October 14 (local time), China’s Ministry of Commerce issued a statement in response to U.S. measures targeting China’s maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors. The U.S. had imposed additional port fees and other restrictions earlier that day based on the results of its so-called “Section 301 investigation.”

China expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition, stating that the U.S. actions constitute typical unilateralism and protectionism. The Ministry emphasized that these measures seriously violate World Trade Organization (WTO) rules and undermine the principles of equality and reciprocity enshrined in the U.S.-China Maritime Agreement, amounting to discriminatory treatment against China’s shipping and shipbuilding industries.

China pointed out that the U.S. measures not only severely harm the interests of Chinese industries but also disrupt global supply chain stability, increase international trade costs, and ultimately backfire on the United States itself. These actions are expected to further exacerbate inflationary pressures and weaken the competitiveness and resilience of American ports and logistics networks. Opposition from U.S. industry groups, the Ministry noted, clearly shows that the U.S. approach is “harmful to others and self-damaging.”

As a countermeasure, China announced on October 10 that it would impose special port service fees on vessels with “U.S. elements” effective the same day the U.S. measures take effect. This includes ships that:

• Fly the U.S. flag
• Were built in the United States
• Are owned, partially held, or operated by U.S. companies

Additionally, to further safeguard national security and development interests, China has decided to include certain companies that assisted the U.S. investigation on its countermeasure blacklist, and has launched legal investigations into acts deemed harmful to China’s shipping and shipbuilding sectors. Among those listed are five U.S.-related subsidiaries under South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean Co., Ltd., with Chinese organizations and individuals prohibited from engaging in any transactions or cooperation with them.

China reiterated its consistent stance on such issues:“If there is a fight, we will fight to the end. If there is talk, our door remains open.”

The Ministry urged the U.S. to immediately correct its erroneous actions and resolve differences through equal dialogue and consultation.