China-US Port Fee Dispute Escalates: Maersk Reroutes US-Flagged Vessels
Release time:
2025-10-17
📰 News Summar
On October 14, 2025, China officially implemented a special port fee on US-flagged vessels as part of countermeasures related to the US Section 301 investigation. Under the new regulation, US-flagged ships docking at Chinese ports are required to pay CNY 400 per net ton.
Following the announcement, several trans-Pacific shipping lines adjusted their operations. Maersk announced temporary rerouting of two US-flagged container vessels to bypass Ningbo Port fees, with cargo transferred via South Korean ports.
📊 Key Data
Maersk Vessel Adjustments
| Vessel Name | Original Port | Adjustment | Transshipment Port | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Potomac Express 542E | Ningbo | No longer calling | Busan, South Korea → Final destination | Oct 14 |
| Maersk Kinloss 543E | Ningbo | No longer calling | South Korea → Ningbo | Oct 14 |
First Vessels Paying Special Port Fees
| Vessel Name | TEU Capacity | Net Tons | Port | Special Port Fee (CNY) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matson Waikiki | 4,870 | 30,224 | Shanghai | 12.09 million |
| Manukai | 2,600 | 11,149 | Ningbo | 4.46 million |
Note: This represents China’s first implementation of a special port fee on US-flagged vessels, confirming that the policy is now officially in effect.
📈 Market Impact
Higher Operational Costs for Shipping Lines
US-flagged vessels calling at Chinese ports face additional port fees. Some carriers reroute cargo via third-country ports, increasing transit complexity.
Volatility in Transit Time and Shipping Costs
Trans-Pacific cargo may experience longer transit times. Small and medium shippers could face higher freight rates and delayed deliveries.
Increased Uncertainty from Policy Dynamics
The China-US port fee dispute is expected to remain fluid. Carrier operational strategies may continue to change, impacting supply chain stability.
💡 Professional Recommendations
| Recommendation | Action Steps |
|---|---|
| Early Booking | Secure bookings in advance to avoid disruptions from vessel rerouting. |
| Flexible Route Selection | Consider third-country transshipment options to optimize cost and transit time. |
| Monitor Vessel Flag | US-flagged vessels may need to be rerouted or replaced with non-US vessels. |
| Maintain Backup Plans | Establish multiple port and carrier options to reduce risk. |
| Stay in Close Contact with Freight Forwarders | Keep updated on vessel schedules, port congestion, and fee policies. |
🚀 How Pass International Logistics Can Help
Guaranteed space and third-country transshipment solutions
Real-time vessel and port tracking
Policy updates and freight optimization strategies
📩 Contact our experts today to get the latest route plans and freight analysis
RELATED BLOG
Finding Reliable Partners for LCL Sea Shipping from China Table of Contents What is LCL Sea Shipping? Benefits of LCL Shipping from China Challenges in LCL Sea Shipping How to Find Reliable Partners for LCL Sea Shipping Evaluating Logistics Partners: Key Criteria Building Strong Relationships with Your LCL Shipping Partners Frequently Asked Questions Conclusion Wh
View Details
