BEIJING: On Saturday, April 19, China's shipbuilding industry vocally criticized the recently announced port fees imposed by the United States government, deeming them "short-sighted". This decision comes as a direct action from President Donald Trump's administration targeting vessels linked to China, in a bid to strengthen the US shipbuilding sector and diminish China's influence over the global shipping landscape.

President Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday intended to revitalize the US shipbuilding industry, which has faced significant challenges in recent years. The move reflects a broader strategy to reduce the United States dependence on China in various economic sectors, particularly in shipping, which is vital for international trade.

However, in a subsequent announcement, his administration softened the impact of these measures by exempting domestic exporters and vessel owners operating in key regions, such as the Great Lakes, the Caribbean, and US territories. This adjustment aims to mitigate potential backlash from local businesses that could be adversely affected.

This recent development marks another chapter in the ongoing trade war between the United States and China, which has seen both nations imposing tariffs on each other's goods that have exceeded 100 percent. The maritime sector, responsible for transporting approximately 80 percent of global trade, has become a flashpoint in this conflict.

The China Association of the National Shipbuilding Industry expressed its deep dissatisfaction with the US measures, stating their "extreme indignation and resolute opposition". Their comments echoed a broader sentiment among Chinese government officials and shipowners, who view this as an attack on their industry.

In a statement, the shipbuilders argued that the decline of the US shipbuilding industry is primarily a result of American protectionist policies, insisting that it has no connection with China's economic practices. They warned that the United States restrictions could destabilize the global maritime framework, leading to inflated shipping costs, which would further exacerbate inflation within the US economy and negatively impact the American public.

Moreover, the shipbuilding association called upon the international maritime community to unite against what they term "short-sighted US behavior", advocating for a fair market environment that benefits all parties involved. They also emphasized their expectation for Chinese authorities to implement strong countermeasures in response.

In a further escalation of tensions, the Chinese government protested these "discriminatory" actions on Friday, urging Washington to rectify its course of action. The Ministry of Commerce issued a statement affirming its commitment to "resolutely take necessary measures to safeguard our own interests". They characterized the imposition of fees as indicative of the USs unilateralist and protectionist policies, labeling them as non-market practices that undermine fair competition.