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Chinese Countermeasures to USTR 301 Actions

On October 14, 2025, China began implementing the "Implementation Measures on Special Port Fees for Ships", a policy designed to impose targeted port charges on vessels with U.S. affiliations. This move, approved by the Chinese State Council, is part of a broader reciprocal countermeasure strategy in response to U.S. maritime policies,  which were effective the same day.

Key Highlights:

• Scope: Applies to both open sea and inland river ports listed in China’s national directory.
• Who Pays: Vessels owned, operated, flagged, or built in the U.S., or with significant U.S. equity/control.
• Limits: Charged only at the first Chinese port per voyage, capped at 5 voyages/year per vessel.
• Exemptions: Humanitarian, emergency, and official vessels are excluded.
• Green Incentives: Up to 10% fee reduction for shore power use and small public service vessels.
• Temporary Exemption: Shipowners committing to build vessels in China may qualify for fee waivers.
• Reciprocal Adjustment: China reserves the right to escalate or ease measures based on U.S. actions.

In fact, these counter measurements explicitly target LNG Tankers falling under the Levy Criteria (e.g., U.S.-owned, U.S.-flagged, or U.S.-built)

This policy reflects a significant evolution in maritime regulation, blending economic strategy, environmental incentives, and geopolitical reciprocity.