Core Viewpoint - The recent escalation in the US-China rivalry is marked by the US imposing additional port fees on Chinese vessels, prompting a swift retaliatory response from China with a new fee structure for US-operated ships [1][3]. Group 1: US-China Port Fee Dispute - The US began charging extra port fees on Chinese-built vessels starting October 14, 2023, which has led to China's immediate implementation of a special port fee for US ships docking in Chinese ports, effective from October 14, 2025, at a rate of 400 RMB per net ton [1]. - The criteria for the fee include ships operated by US entities or those with 25% or more US ownership, which may inadvertently affect vessels owned by other countries due to the minority US stake [3]. Group 2: Strategic Response - China is advised to adopt a strategy of countering in areas where it holds advantages, rather than passively responding to US actions, particularly in the maritime sector where China has a significant global presence in shipping and shipbuilding [5]. - The suggestion is to shift the battleground to the aviation sector, where the US has a dominant market share, by imposing additional airport usage fees on US-made passenger and cargo aircraft operating in China, thereby increasing operational costs for US airlines [7]. - This approach not only aims to create economic pressure on the US but also seeks to exploit potential divisions among US allies, particularly in the context of competition between major aircraft manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus [7].