The number of Chinese-built vessels docking at the Port of Los Angeles has plummeted! Due to the port fee policy implemented by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative on October 14, only one Chinese-built ship docked at the port last week—a significant drop compared to the same period in previous years.

  Gene Seroka, Executive Director of the Port of Los Angeles, noted in a briefing that the new fees employ complex calculation formulas designed to impose high charges on relevant Chinese vessels. Data shows that among the 22 ships expected to dock last week, Chinese vessels accounted for only 4.5%, far below the 20% average for 2024.

  Despite a 7.5% year-on-year decline in September throughput, the port achieved a record quarterly throughput of 2.9 million TEUs in the third quarter. To counter the new regulations, shipping giants like Maersk and CMA CGM have adjusted strategies, implementing route changes and transshipment port arrangements to mitigate impacts.

  The global shipping market is closely monitoring developments, as this trade dispute could have far-reaching implications for the international maritime landscape.