China, In Opposition To Us Berthing Fee Measures…"Will Take Necessary Measures"

China strongly opposed the imposition of port entry fees by the United States (Source: Reuters)

After the United States announced a new fee imposition policy on Chinese ships entering its ports, the Chinese government openly criticized it.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian, in a regular briefing on the 18th, warned that this U.S. measure “will negatively impact not only other countries but also the United States itself,” highlighting the potential for widespread economic damage. He pointed out, “It could threaten the stability of the global supply chain as well as increase shipping costs, leading to inflation pressures within the U.S., and becoming a burden for consumers and businesses.” He further claimed, “This decision will ultimately not help the U.S. shipbuilding industry but rather have the opposite effect."

Spokesperson Lin urged the U.S. to immediately withdraw the measure, adding that China would have no choice but to respond in order to protect its legitimate interests.

This measure, announced by the United States Trade Representative (USTR) on the 17th, involves imposing fees on Chinese shipping companies, foreign shipping companies operating Chinese ships, and car carriers manufactured abroad, when entering U.S. ports.

This is interpreted as part of an increased trade pressure on China, following President Trump's previously announced policy of imposing ‘mutual tariffs above 10%.’ The Chinese side considers this measure an “inappropriate step that escalates trade friction,” raising the possibility of renewed trade conflicts between the United States and China.