China Imposes Special Port Fees on US Vessels: Key Details for BIMCO Members

The measures are detailed in two official documents: the Announcement of the Ministry of Transport and the Measures for Implementation. (Two files in English translated by BIMCO Shanghai and its official link) 

• Translated file: Announcement of the Ministry of Transport of PRC on Imposing Special Port Fees on US Vessels  
  Official link: 交通运输部关于对美船舶收取船舶特别港务费的公告-政府信息公开-交通运输部
• Translated file: Measures for the Implementation of the Collection of Special Port Fees on US Vessels 
  Official link: 交通运输部办公厅关于印发《对美船舶收取船舶特别港务费实施办法》的通知-政府信息公开-交通运输部

Who Is Affected? 

Special Port Fees apply to vessels engaged in international maritime transport that meet any of the following criteria:

1. Owned or operated by US enterprises, organisations, or individuals. 
2. Owned or operated by entities in which US interests hold 25% or more equity (including voting rights or board seats).
3. Flying the US flag.
4. Built in the United States. 

Exemptions: 

All vessels built in China that fall under items (1) to (3) of the above shall be exempt from payment, and vessels entering Chinese shipyards solely for repair in ballast, and other vessels recognized as exempt, shall also be exempt from payment. 

Fee Structure 

The Special Port Fees are charged per voyage, based on net tonnage, and will increase in phases: 

• From 14 October 2025: RMB 400 per net ton
• From 17 April 2026: RMB 640 per net ton
• From 17 April 2027: RMB 880 per net ton
• From 17 April 2028: RMB 1,120 per net ton 

Additional Rules: 

• Fees are paid only at the first Chinese port of call per voyage, even if multiple ports are visited.
• Each vessel is subject to the fee for a maximum of five voyages per calendar year; subsequent voyages are exempt upon proof of payment.
• The annual billing cycle starts on 17 April each year.  

Compliance and Reporting 

• Ships or agents must report vessel details (build country, flag, ownership, operator, charter status, intended ports) to the maritime authorities seven days before arrival (or upon departure from the last port if the voyage is shorter). 
• Vessels that have not paid the Special Port Fees will not be granted entry/exit formalities. 
• Evasion of payment will result in outstanding fees being due before the vessel’s next call at a Chinese port.  

Dynamic Adjustments 

The scope, standards, and effective periods for the Special Port Fees may be adjusted as necessary by the Ministry of Transport. 

BIMCO members are advised to review vessel portfolios and voyage planning in light of these new requirements, ensure compliance with reporting and payment obligations, and monitor for further updates from Chinese authorities.