Cosco Shipping Container Lines and Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) announced that the United States will begin assessing port service fees on maritime transport services provided by Chinese operators and shipowners, as well as operators using Chinese-built vessels, starting 14 October 2025.
The fees follow an investigation by the United States Trade Representative (USTR) into China's dominance in shipbuilding. While all lines operating Chinese-built vessels calling at U.S. ports will be affected, Cosco and its subsidiary OOCL will face broader impacts as Chinese shipowners.
© OOCL
Cosco Shipping Lines stated: "While the port service fees may pose certain operational challenges, Cosco Shipping Lines remains confident in our ability to ensure stable and reliable services in the United States. We are committed to maintaining stable capacity deployment and service quality, consistently delivering reliable, secure, and high-quality logistics solutions." The company added that it was enhancing its product portfolio to align with the evolving demands of the U.S. market while maintaining competitive rates and surcharges.
OOCL issued a similar statement, noting: "Despite the financial burden imposed by these fees, our commitment to the U.S. market is clear and strong. For decades, OOCL has been a trusted partner in facilitating U.S. exports and imports, consistently delivering reliable, secure, and high-quality logistics solutions. That commitment has not changed."
The company further stated: "OOCL's future in the U.S. is firm. We will remain steadfast in protecting our customers' interests and providing a comprehensive range of dependable services under the OOCL brand."
In April 2025, the U.S. announced its plan to impose new port fees on Chinese ships in a phased rollout over 180 days, part of a broader strategy aimed at reviving American shipyards.
Source: SeatradeMaritime