China

The article reports that Britain’s modern deep-water hub at London Gateway, operated by DP World, is experiencing growing operational strain due to yard-density build-up, bunching of vessels, and a boom in imports. These factors are combining to create congestion which is adversely affecting schedule reliability. As a result, carriers such as CMA CGM are choosing to divert certain service calls to neighbouring Southampton, also run by DP World, in order to maintain more predictable operations.

Background

• The move is a countermeasure by China after the US recently levied fees on Chinese maritime operators.
• With growing trade tensions, both sides are escalating their measures in ports and shipping sectors.

What China’s Measure Entails

• “Special port fees” will apply only to vessels owned or operated by US companies docking at Chinese ports.
• It is not a blanket increase for all foreign ships, but a targeted penalty aimed at US-linked carriers.

Implications & Effects

Background & Regulatory Change

In response to concerns about China’s dominance in shipbuilding and maritime logistics, the U.S. is enforcing new trade rules under the USTR’s Section 301 investigation. These rules target vessels built, owned, or operated by Chinese entities in order to level the playing field.