Chinese shipowner COSCO Shipping Lines has pledged to keep its U.S. services steady despite a looming wave of port charges that could add millions of dollars to the cost of calling American ports.
From 14 October, U.S. authorities will begin levying $50 per net ton on vessels owned or operated by Chinese companies, with the rate climbing to $140 per net ton by April 2028.
Ships built in Chinese yards but not operated by Chinese firms will also face new charges of $18 per net ton or $120 per container discharged, whichever is higher, increasing to $33 per net ton or $250 per container within three years. Each vessel may be billed up to five times a year under the scheme.
COSCO admitted the measures could present “operational challenges,” but stressed that capacity, schedules and service quality in the U.S. market would remain stable. The company also promised to maintain competitive freight rates while adapting policies to meet the new requirements.
“COSCO SHIPPING Lines has been deeply engaged in the U.S. market, strictly complying with all applicable U.S. laws, regulations, and policy requirements,” the firm said, describing itself as a “trusted partner in facilitating U.S. import and export trade.”
Analysts say the new fees could significantly increase operating costs for Chinese operators, but carriers may absorb some of the burden in the near term to preserve market share on the transpacific routes.
