China’s Ministry of Commerce has cautioned that the United States’ proposal to impose fees on Chinese ships entering U.S. ports could disrupt global supply chains and hurt the U.S. economy.
He Yadong, spokesperson for the ministry, expressed these concerns at a press conference on Thursday, in response to the Office of the United States Trade Representative’s (USTR) suggestion to levy such fees.
“If the United States insists on imposing port fees, it will drive up global shipping costs and disrupt the stability of global supply chains,” He said.
He warned that such measures could increase inflationary pressures within the United States, weaken the global competitiveness of U.S. goods, and harm American consumers and businesses.
On February 21, the USTR announced it was seeking public comment on proposed actions in the Section 301 investigation into China’s maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors, including the imposition of port fees.
He described the U.S. Section 301 investigation as “a typical act of unilateralism and protectionism,” which he said seriously violates World Trade Organization rules.
“China urges the United States to respect the facts and multilateral rules, and refrain from going farther down the wrong path,” He stated, noting that China will closely monitor U.S. actions and take necessary measures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests.
