靠港费用暴涨3562万，美国船东：我每艘船去中国，我的心都在滴血

Core Viewpoint - The recent escalation of Sino-U.S. trade tensions has led to the implementation of new port fees by China on U.S. vessels, significantly impacting the shipping industry and increasing operational costs for American shipowners [1][4][7]. Group 1: New Regulations and Their Impacts - On October 14, 2025, China's Ministry of Transport implemented new port fees for U.S.-related vessels, which were a direct response to the U.S. imposing additional port service fees on Chinese vessels [1][4]. - The new fees start at 400 RMB per net ton and will increase to 1120 RMB by 2028, leading to substantial costs for large vessels, such as a 16,000-ton oil tanker incurring fees of 64 million RMB in 2025 and potentially 179 million RMB by 2028 [4][7]. - The U.S. has been conducting investigations into China's maritime and logistics sectors since April 2025, aiming to curb China's dominance in shipbuilding, which accounts for over 60% of global new ship orders [4][7]. Group 2: Reactions from the Shipping Industry - American shipowners are facing severe financial strain due to the new fees, with some reporting losses that could consume nearly half of their annual profits [11][13]. - The shipping industry is experiencing a shift, with companies considering various strategies to mitigate costs, including changing vessel flags and ownership structures to avoid the new fees [13][15]. - Major shipping companies, including Matson and Hapag-Lloyd, have begun rerouting vessels to avoid Chinese ports, leading to increased operational costs and delays [15][17]. Group 3: Broader Economic Implications - The new port fees are expected to increase consumer prices in the U.S., with estimates suggesting a 3% to 5% rise in retail prices due to higher shipping costs being passed on to consumers [15][20]. - The shipping fee conflict has led to a shift in global shipping patterns, with Southeast Asian ports experiencing increased activity as cargo is rerouted away from China [17][20]. - The situation highlights the vulnerabilities in U.S. maritime interests and the potential for increased competition from South Korean and Japanese shipbuilders, who are benefiting from the sanctions against China [18][22].