10/07/2025
New Fees on Chinese Cargo Vessels Effective October 14, 2025
Beginning October 14, 2025, new fees will apply to Chinese-owned or operated ships, Chinese-built vessels, and foreign-built vehicle carriers entering U.S. ports. These charges will gradually rise at set intervals over the next three years.
The decision follows a review by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, which concluded that China’s efforts to dominate the maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding industries place an unreasonable burden on U.S. trade. As a result, the action falls under Section 301 trade authority.
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), it is the responsibility of the vessel operator—not CBP—to determine whether fees apply. Operators must ensure payment is made on or before the vessel’s entry at its first U.S. port of call from outside the customs territory.
CBP advises operators to complete payment before arrival, ideally three business days in advance, to avoid delays. Ships without proof of payment may be denied loading or unloading privileges, or clearance may be withheld until payment is verified.
