US hits Chinese ships with fee

The United States unveiled new port fees on Chinese built and operated ships Thursday, in a bid to boost the domestic shipbuilding industry and curb China's dominance in the sector.

- DANIEL STUBEN WASHINGTON (AFP)

The move — which stems from a probe launched under President Joe Biden's administration — comes as the United States and China are locked in a major trade war over President Donald Trump's tariffs and could further ratchet up tensions.

"Ships and shipping are vital to American economic security and the free flow of commerce. US Trade Representative James Greer said in a statement announcing the new fees, most of which will begin in mid-October.

Under the new rule, per tonnage or per container, fees will apply at each port at some ports in the US if they have tried hard.

The fee will be assessed only up to five times per year, and can be waived if the owner places an order for a US built vessel.

Dominant after World War II, the US shipbuilding industry has gradually declined and now accounts for just 0.1% of global output.