China special port charges on US linked vessels

Members and assureds whose vessels are bound for ports in China should note the latest developments on special port charges imposed on US linked vessels.

Following the announcement by US Customs and Border Protection that special port fees would be imposed on vessels owned, operated or built by Chinese entities, the Chinese Government introduced reciprocal countermeasures. These include the collection of special port charges on US linked vessels from 14 October 2025.

The countermeasures were introduced under the newly revised Regulations of the People’s Republic of China on International Maritime Transport. An overview is available in Wang Jing & Co’s newsletter here.

As advised by Oasis P&I Services Company Limited in their circular available here, the special port charges apply to the following categories of vessels calling at Chinese ports:

• vessels owned by US enterprises, other organisations or individuals
• vessels operated by US enterprises, other organisations or individuals
• vessels owned or operated by enterprises or other organisations in which US enterprises, other organisations or individuals directly or indirectly hold 25% or more of equity, including voting rights or board seats
• vessels flying the flag of the United States
• vessels built in the United States

The special port charges are levied per voyage for vessels berthing at Chinese ports and will be introduced in phases:

*Any fraction of one net ton is counted as one net ton.

The maritime administration authorities at the relevant port of call will collect the port charges. If a vessel calls at multiple Chinese ports on the same voyage, the charges are payable only at the first port of call on that voyage. For vessels calling at China more than five times per year, the special port charges will be collected for a maximum of five voyages per year.

For further information on the special port charges imposed on US linked vessels, see the forms to be completed, the interpretative guidance from Wang Jing & Co., and the implementation measures from Huatai Insurance Agency & Consultant Service Ltd.

Members and assureds are advised to note the new regulations and act accordingly.