The U.S. and China Begin Mutual Port Fees

On October 9, a maritime trade war effectively began between the United States and the People’s Republic of China. Both countries simultaneously introduced mutual port fees for ships transporting a wide range of goods — from oil and gas to textiles, electronics, and children’s toys.

According to Reuters, Washington and Beijing now impose additional tariffs on vessels flying the flag of the opposing side when entering their ports, marking a new round of trade confrontation between the world’s two largest economies.

China’s Ministry of Transport explained the decision as a countermeasure to U.S. actions, which had earlier imposed fees on Chinese ships built or operated by companies from the PRC. Beijing emphasized that it “does not seek escalation but is forced to respond to Washington’s discriminatory measures.”

The American side, in turn, stated that the new tariffs aim to “restore fair trade conditions” and protect the interests of national shipping companies.

Experts have already dubbed the situation a “spiral of maritime taxation,” warning that it could lead to higher shipping costs and disruptions in global supply chains. Analysts note that additional charges on fuel, container shipping, and transit routes will inevitably increase prices for goods worldwide.

Particularly vulnerable will be countries in Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, which depend on supplies through Pacific routes. International shipping companies have already begun revising logistics to minimize additional costs.

As a result, this new round of trade escalation may put pressure on global inflation and increase volatility in commodity and currency markets. Economists believe that if Washington and Beijing do not enter negotiations in the coming weeks, the consequences could affect the entire global trade system, similar to the 2018–2020 trade war.

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