The U.S. plans to impose port fees on foreign-built ships, risking increased freight costs and altered shipping routes in global trade.
The U.S. administration plans to impose port fees on cargo transported by foreign-built vessels. If implemented, it is anticipated that this measure could alter shipping routes, increase freight costs, and lead to new tensions in global trade.
Following the suspension of mutual cargo fees transported by sea between the U.S. and China in November 2025, tensions in the sector have risen again with the new plan announced by the White House. Under the 'U.S. Maritime Action Plan,' a universal infrastructure or security fee is proposed for all cargo arriving in the U.S. The administration aims to revitalize the domestic shipbuilding industry and establish a strategic commercial fleet through this regulation.
As part of the plan, fees ranging from 1 to 25 cents per kilogram are being considered for cargo transported by vessels not built in the U.S. This range corresponds to approximately $10 to $250 per ton.
The White House forecasts a revenue potential of $66 billion over ten years in a low scenario and up to $1.5 trillion in a high scenario. It is planned that the revenues generated will be transferred to the 'Maritime Security Trust Fund' and used to support U.S. shipyards.
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), which represents more than 80% of the global trade fleet, has stated that while it supports the U.S. goal of increasing maritime capacity, it opposes the port fees. According to the organization, the proposed measure could disrupt trade flows, create inflationary pressures, and increase the risk of retaliation.
Experts indicate that if the plan comes into effect, some cargoes may shift to alternative markets, and transportation contracts may be renegotiated. This situation is expected to create fluctuations in the spot market and lead to short-term spikes in freight rates.
Energy and commodity transportation may be among the most affected areas. It is estimated that the freight rate for an Aframax tanker on the Caribbean-U.S. Gulf route, currently around $32 per ton, could increase by up to 30% even in the lowest fee scenario. If the upper limit of the fee is applied, the total transportation cost could multiply several times.
It is noted that the cost structure for a wide range of products, including petroleum products, biofuels, and agricultural commodities, may change for U.S. importers and exporters.
The 37-page action plan includes not only the fee regulation but also aims to increase U.S. shipbuilding capacity and establish a U.S.-built 'Strategic Commercial Fleet' that will operate on international routes. Currently, there are only eight shipyards in the U.S. capable of building vessels larger than 400 feet.
The plan also envisions the establishment of a regulatory framework for autonomous and unmanned vessel technologies. It aims for the U.S. Coast Guard to designate testing areas, certify remote control centers, and develop backup sensor systems for complex port operations. However, it is noted that details regarding insurance, liability, and emergency response processes have not yet been clarified.
The regulation, which requires Congressional approval, is expected to be enacted under the budget for the fiscal year 2027. In the industry, discussions about a potential 'cost shock' have already begun.
Source: Ekonomim.com
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
