US-China trade tensions flare as new port fees kick in

[Container Ship Docking]
shaunl

The United States and China will begin charging new port fees on each other’s vessels starting Tuesday, escalating trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies.

The additional fees would be imposed on ocean shipping firms that move everything from holiday toys to crude oil.

In details published on Tuesday by state broadcaster CCTV, China spelled out specific provisions on exemptions, which also include empty ships entering Chinese shipyards for repair.

Also on Tuesday, new US tariffs came into effect on imported timber, kitchen cabinets, and upholstered furniture, much of which comes from China.

"China's position is consistent. If there's a fight, we'll fight to the end; if there's a talk, the door is open," said a Chinese commerce ministry spokesperson on Tuesday, as per reports.

"The US cannot demand talks while simultaneously imposing new restrictive measures with threats and intimidation. This is not the right way to engage with China," they said in a statement.

Chinese state media said the US duties on Chinese ships violated a maritime transport agreement between the two nations.

In retaliation, U.S.-linked ships docking at Chinese ports are now charged 400 yuan (£42; $56) per net tonne, according to Chinese state media CCTV.

The duties are closely matched to the port fees imposed by Washington and will also apply to ships operated by U.S. firms and those in which an American company holds a stake of 25% or more.

The fees will rise each year, reaching 1,120 yuan per tonne in April of 2028, CCTV added.

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