HAPAG-Lloyd has joined other leading carriers in deciding against imposing surcharges linked to the USTR’s Section 301 fees on Chinese-owned and Chinese-built vessels calling at US ports.
The charges – which have still not been fully itemised despite being phased in over three years from 14 October – could cost some lines up to US$1.6 billion per annum, according to HSBC analysis.
“We recognize that such regulatory changes may raise questions about potential impacts on your supply chain,” Hapag-Lloyd said in a customary advisory early this week.
“Please be assured that we have reviewed the situation and taken proactive measures to ensure continued service stability and reliability for you. You can expect:
China, which had remained largely silent about the USTR impositions, has now announced it will retaliate.
Splash 247 last night reported that Chinese premier Li Qiang signed a State Council decree over the weekend, which states that China will take necessary countermeasures against countries or regions that impose or support discriminatory bans, restrictions, or similar measures targeting Chinese operators, vessels, or crew engaged in international maritime transport and related services.
Reports from the US suggest the Trump Administration agencies have yet to determine how the fees will be collected – in less than two weeks’ time – leading to speculation the proposal (which originated in a review ordered by the Biden Administration) may be a negotiating plank in wider US-China trade conflicts.