U.S.–China Trade Tensions Deepen as Both Sides Announce New Fees and Tariff Measures

Trade tensions between the U.S. and China have flared again as both countries announce new fees. China’s Ministry of Transportation confirmed new tonnage fees on U.S.-owned and -operated vessels calling at Chinese ports, mirroring the U.S. Section 301 fees set to take effect on October 14. These charges target ships that are U.S.-flagged, built, or majority-owned by American entities, with rates rising annually through 2028.

On Friday, President Trump also threatened to increase tariffs on Chinese goods an additional 100% and cancel an upcoming meeting with President Xi Jinping, citing Beijing’s expanded export controls on rare earth elements. No official details or follow-up statements have been released yet.

The developments have reignited fears of a renewed U.S.–China trade war, shaking global markets and adding uncertainty to international shipping.

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