China will impose tit-for-tat port fees on U.S.-linked vessels from Oct. 14, matching Washington’s planned charges on Chinese ships. The Ministry of Transport set 400 yuan ($56) per net ton per voyage—capped at five times a year—rising annually to 1,120 yuan by 2028, calling the U.S. move discriminatory. It follows new export curbs on rare earths and some lithium battery equipment ahead of an expected Trump–Xi meeting at APEC. Consultants say the real bite is on U.S.-owned and operated vessels. Alphaliner warned last month the U.S. fees could cost top carriers up to $3.2 billion next year.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.