In response to new US port service fees targeting Chinese vessels, China’s Ministry of Transport has announced and implemented “Special Port Fees” on US vessels calling at Chinese ports, effective from 14 October 2025. The measures are detailed in two official documents: the Announcement of the Ministry of Transport and the Measures for Implementation. (Two files in English translated by BIMCO Shanghai and its official link) Translated file: Announcement of the Ministry of Transport of PRC on Imposing Special Port Fees on US Vessels Official link: 交通运输部关于对美船舶收取船舶特别港务费的公告-政府信息公开-交通运输部 Translated file: Measures for the Implementation of the Collection of Special Port Fees on US Vessels Official link: 交通运输部办公厅关于印发《对美船舶收取船舶特别港务费实施办法》的通知-政府信息公开-交通运输部 Who Is Affected? Special Port Fees apply to vessels engaged in international maritime transport that meet any of the following criteria: Owned or operated by US enterprises, organisations, or individuals. Owned or operated by entities in which US interests hold 25% or more equity (including voting rights or board seats). Flying the US flag. Built in the United States. Exemptions: All vessels built in China that fall under items (1) to (3) of the above shall be exempt from payment, and vessels entering Chinese shipyards solely for repair in ballast, and other vessels recognized as exempt, shall also be exempt from payment. Fee Structure The Special Port Fees are charged per voyage, based on net tonnage, and will increase in phases: From 14 October 2025: RMB 400 per net ton From 17 April 2026: RMB 640 per net ton From 17 April 2027: RMB 880 per net ton From 17 April 2028: RMB 1,120 per net ton Additional Rules: Fees are paid only at the first Chinese port of call per voyage, even if multiple ports are visited. Each vessel is subject to the fee for a maximum of five voyages per calendar year; subsequent voyages are exempt upon proof of payment. The annual billing cycle starts on 17 April each year. Compliance and Reporting Ship