China–U.S. Port Fees Disrupt Cargo Flows and Push Up Freight Rates

LOS ANGELES/SINGAPORE — Oct 17 (Reuters) — New port fees imposed simultaneously by China and the United States are disrupting global cargo operations, reducing available shipping capacity, and raising freight rates, according to industry officials.

Starting October 14, ship operators began removing China-linked vessels from U.S. trade lanes to avoid new American port fees, while U.S.-linked ships were pulled from Chinese schedules to bypass retaliatory charges introduced the same day. These shifts have created confusion among operators over how China determines U.S. ownership or control when applying its fees.

“The list of available ships to call China’s ports is definitely smaller than before, across all shipping markets,” said Stamatis Tsantanis, CEO of Seanergy Maritime Holdings, adding that costs will ultimately reach consumers.

The Shanghai Containerized Freight Index (SCFI) jumped 12.9% to a four-week high, driven by surging transpacific rates. Major container carriers including Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd, and CMA CGM have already reshuffled ship assignments to avoid exposure.

Benchmark VLCC rates climbed to two-week highs after the fees took effect, prompting consultancy Energy Aspects to raise its Q4 2025 rate forecast. Although Chinese-built vessels are exempt from Beijing’s new charges, Gibson Shipbrokers noted that many U.S.-owned or operated ships remain affected.

In the dry bulk segment, 60 to 70 capesize vessels—about 3% of the global fleet—have been hit by the new measures. “Given the high share of China-bound cargo in this segment, the market will feel the pressure,” Tsantanis said.

Industry analysts warn that these disruptions could further tighten vessel supply, delay shipments, and raise costs for global trade, ultimately impacting consumers in both countries.