Jan 14, 2026 Webinar | Global Supply Chain Architecture: Examining Red Sea’s Evolving Impact - Register Now

Disruptions

Beyond Tariffs Part 2: US Port Fees Create Ripples for Global Container Shipping Alliances

Date Apr 24th, 2025

Time 7 min read

The United States has introduced trade measures targeting China's maritime sector that go significantly beyond traditional tariffs on goods. A new system of port call fees, set to begin in October 2025, is poised to create considerable strain within global container shipping alliances, potentially reshaping the partnerships that are essential to international supply chains.

Understanding the New US Port Fees

As of April 17th, 2025, the finalized rule from the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) confirms that starting October 14th, new fees will apply to vessels calling at US ports. These fees specifically target vessels built in China and, critically, those owned or operated by Chinese entities. The implemented structure features tiered rates, with significantly higher fees imposed on Chinese-owned or operated ships compared to non-Chinese owned vessels that were built in China. This distinction in pricing is a key factor in the anticipated disruption within the closely connected world of container shipping.

According to the USTR's announcement, fees for Chinese-owned or operated vessels will commence at $50 per net ton effective October 14th, 2025, and are scheduled to increase incrementally to $140 per net ton by April 2028. For Chinese-built vessels not owned or operated by Chinese entities, the fees will start at $18 per net ton or $120 per container discharged (whichever is higher), rising to $33 per net ton or $250 per container by April 2028. These fees will be assessed per U.S. voyage, with a cap of five charges per vessel per year (1). This introduces a significant and unequal cost burden not previously factored into existing operational agreements.

The Role of Container Shipping Alliances and VSAs

For decades, the global container shipping landscape has been shaped by strategic alliances and cooperative agreements. As of early 2025, the major alliances include the Ocean Alliance (composed of CMA CGM, COSCO, Evergreen, and OOCL, whose agreement was recently extended), the newly formed Gemini Cooperation (a partnership between Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd), and the Premier Alliance (formed by ONE, HMM, and Yang Ming). Additionally, MSC is operating an independent network, though it engages in some slot exchange agreements with other carriers. These alliances and independent networks are heavily reliant on Vessel Sharing Agreements (VSAs).

Global Container Shipping Alliance Market Share - 2025

A Vessel Sharing Agreement (VSA) is a contractual arrangement between multiple shipping lines to operate a joint service on a specific trade route. Under a VSA, carriers agree to share space on each other's vessels, effectively pooling their resources and capacity. This allows them to offer more frequent sailings, a wider range of port calls, and better coverage than any single carrier could achieve alone, optimizing vessel utilization and managing overall capacity more efficiently. VSAs are fundamental to the operational and economic viability of global container shipping alliances.

Uneven Costs Strain Partnerships

The new US port fees introduce a significant financial imbalance among alliance partners. Within a VSA, where partners share vessel space and operational costs, the imposition of substantially higher fees on vessels based on the owner's nationality or the vessel's build origin creates an uneven burden. As highlighted by industry analysis, this situation was not anticipated in existing VSA frameworks and directly contributes to uncertainty and potential instability within global supply chains (2).

For example, within the Ocean Alliance, a vessel owned and operated by Chinese-based COSCO calling at a US port will face considerably higher fees than a similarly sized vessel operated by France's CMA CGM on the same service route. This disparity in costs for providing the same service creates a complex challenge for how these differential expenses will be managed or allocated among alliance members.

Potential for Cargo Shifts and Congestion in Europe

The uneven cost structure is prompting concerns within the industry about potential shifts in global cargo flows. Analysis suggests that to mitigate the impact of the higher fees on Chinese-owned or operated vessels and, to a lesser extent, Chinese-built vessels, carriers and shippers might explore redirecting cargo away from US ports (3). This could involve increasing shipments to alternative gateways in North America, such as in Mexico and Canada, a trend already observed as shippers seek to navigate existing trade measures.

Furthermore, a significant redirection of vessels avoiding US calls could lead to a concentration of capacity on other major trade lanes, notably the Asia-Europe routes. If vessels are redeployed from trans-Pacific services to Asia-Europe, this influx of capacity could potentially lead to oversupply in that market, creating a buyer's market for tonnage. Conversely, a surge in cargo being rerouted through European ports could place considerable strain on infrastructure and operations, potentially leading to increased congestion at these key hubs (4).

Such shifts in cargo destinations and vessel deployment would have significant consequences for global supply chains. Increased volumes at alternative ports could lead to congestion, delays, and added logistics costs. Changes in service patterns and vessel availability on different routes could impact shipping schedules and capacity reliability for shippers worldwide.

In this period of potential flux and uncertainty, maintaining visibility over your shipments is crucial. Gaining predictive insights into potential delays caused by sudden network changes, port congestion, or rerouting is crucial for ensuring supply chain resilience. As discussions around alternative ports gain traction, explore how advanced visibility platforms can provide data-driven options. Discover how Wakeo's capabilities can help you keep track of your cargo and leverage features like Nearby Alternatives in Trusted Routes to navigate this evolving landscape.

Reference:

(1) US Trade Representative. Notice of Action and Proposed Action in Section 301 Investigation of China's Targeting the Maritime, Logistics - U.S. Trade Representative. April 17th, 2025.

(2) The Loadstar. USTR fees will lead to ‘complete destabilisation’ of container shipping alliances. April 23rd, 2025.

(3) The Loadstar. $1.5m China-built ship charge would bring return of US port congestion. February 27th, 2025.

(4) BBC. US lays out plans to hit Chinese ships with port fees. April 18th, 2025.

Turn the supply chain

From reactive To predictive