USTR

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.

1. Context & Forecast

• According to Alphaliner’s analysis, container shipping lines could be hit with USTR-imposed port fee liabilities reaching US$3.2 billion in 2026.
• This expected fee burden stems from trade policy changes, stricter enforcement, and shifting regulations targeting port services used by foreign carriers. 

2.