U.S. Section 301
Measures Target China’s Shipping and Shipbuilding Sector to Counter China Domination
The
Congressional Research Service (CRS) report examines the U.S. use of Section
301 of the Trade Act of 1974 to address China’s policies and practices in
the global maritime, logistics and shipbuilding sectors. USTR found that
China’s state support, subsidies, industrial policies and market practices have
strengthened its dominance and disadvantaged U.S. industries.
In
2025, the U.S. imposed 100% tariffs on Chinese ship-to-shore cranes and
chassis and tariffs of up to 150% on Chinese port-handling equipment, along
with fees on certain vessels entering U.S. ports. Implementation of the
remedies has been delayed until November 10, 2026.
China
has become the dominant global shipbuilding power. Its share of global
shipbuilding tonnage increased to 54.6% in 2024, while Chinese
shipbuilders accounted for about 71% of global ship orders by gross tonnage
in 2025. China also produces about 95% of shipping containers, 86% of
intermodal chassis and more than 70% of ship-to-shore cranes.
The
report notes that U.S. tariffs and port fees alone are unlikely to close the
gap with China. Congress is considering additional measures, including
support for U.S. shipbuilding and key inputs such as steel, restrictions on
Chinese shipping equipment and greater cooperation with U.S. allies.