Authorities in China are slapping tit-for-tat port fees on US ships. Washington announced a similar measure against Chinese vessels earlier this year.
China’s transport ministry made the announcement on Friday. The special port fees apply to ships owned or operated by US enterprises, organizations and individuals, starting on Tuesday.
The US government’s measure applies to Chinese-flagged or built ships, starting the same day. Officials say the move is based on Section 301 of the Trade Act, which applies when trading partners are deemed to have engaged in unfair practices.
The Chinese ministry accused Washington of seriously violating basic international trade principles.
