U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will implement a new fee structure on October 14, 2025, targeting vessels that are either owned, operated, or built in China.
The measure, aimed at strengthening U.S. maritime security and promoting domestic shipbuilding, will introduce significant new costs for international freight forwarders and charterers. Non-compliance with the new fees could result in severe penalties, including blocked cargo operations or the withholding of port clearance.
Under the new rules, vessels owned or operated by Chinese entities will incur an initial fee of USD 50 per net ton, with the charge increasing to USD 140 by April 2028. Non-Chinese operators of Chinese-built ships will incur a lower fee. The charges are assessed per voyage, capped at five chargeable rotations annually per vessel, and are applied only at the first U.S. port of call.
Several exceptions have been granted to mitigate the impact on specific segments of the industry. Short-sea services, smaller vessels, U.S.-owned ships, ballast voyages, and certain specialized exporters are all exempt from the new fee regime. To streamline the payment process, CBP is introducing a dedicated online portal through Pay.gov.
“This new fee schedule marks a significant shift in U.S. maritime policy and requires immediate attention from all players in the supply chain,” said Jane Doe, a Senior Logistics Analyst at Global Maritime Insights. “Freight forwarders and charterers must proactively review their contracts and operational models to account for these new costs. Early preparation and a clear plan for financial responsibility will be critical to navigating this new regulatory landscape successfully.”
While proponents of the new policy highlight its potential to protect domestic industries, critics express concerns that it could lead to higher shipping costs and potentially disrupt trade flows at smaller, less-equipped ports.
For freight forwarders and charterers, the successful implementation of this new policy hinges on clear communication and strategic planning. Ensuring the financial responsibility for these fees is properly allocated and factored into logistics strategies will be essential to avoid delays and disruptions.
