Global shipping majors Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have redirected two US-flagged ships away from Chinese ports following the implementation of Beijing’s new “Special Port Fees” targeting vessels linked to the United States.

The move came after China’s Ministry of Transport announced on October 10 that additional charges would apply to ships built, flagged, owned, or operated by US entities calling at Chinese ports. The regulation, effective October 14, is widely viewed as a retaliatory measure amid rising trade tensions between the two economies.

Industry sources said Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd chose to divert the affected vessels to alternative Asian ports to avoid the extra charges and potential delays. Both carriers are currently evaluating the broader operational and commercial implications of the new policy on their regional networks.

The decision highlights the growing uncertainty in US-China maritime trade, as operators weigh the cost impact and compliance risks of the new fees. Meanwhile, BIMCO has announced plans to develop a standard contractual clause to help shipowners manage such port-related charges more transparently in future charter agreements.

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Edited by: Cofast News Editorial Team (compiled from international maritime sources)

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