Beijing on October 14, 2025, released detailed regulations for collecting a new special port fee from vessels connected with the United States.
The measures specify calculation methods, payment procedures, liability, and exemptions.
According to the document, the fee applies once per voyage, only at the first Chinese port of call.
The rate follows a phased schedule: 400 yuan per net registered ton from October 14, 2025; 640 yuan from April 17, 2026; 880 yuan from April 17, 2027; and 1,120 yuan from April 17, 2028.
Each vessel is subject to an annual cap of five voyages for which the fee may be charged, with the fiscal year beginning April 17.
The levy applies to vessels that meet one or more criteria: owned by U.S. organizations or individuals; operated by American entities; owned or managed by organizations in which U.S. persons hold 25 percent or more of equity, voting rights, or board representation; flying the U.S. flag; or built in the United States.
Exemptions include vessels of Chinese origin (even if they meet the previous criteria), ships entering without cargo for repairs, and other exceptions defined in the regulation.
Operational requirements include filing a vessel declaration seven days before arrival—or upon departure from the previous port if the voyage is shorter—with details on construction, flag, ownership, operation, and Chinese port calls.
Payment must be made at the first port of entry. If unpaid, the vessel will be denied entry or exit formalities.
A ship leaving Chinese territory with outstanding dues must settle them before its next arrival.
The detailed measures were published on the State Council Information Office’s online platform.
State Council Information Office of the People’s Republic of China (SCIO) is a government body under the State Council responsible for information dissemination, policy communication, and public affairs at the central level.
