ICS warns of US port fees

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has welcomed the U.S. government’s action plan for maritime transport in a statement. This plan aims to revitalize and expand U.S. shipbuilding and maritime capabilities. The ICS supports the initiative to increase shipbuilding capacity in the U.S. and strengthen the shipbuilding industry through investment-promoting measures. According to the ICS, additional commercial tonnage would improve the efficiency and competitiveness of the maritime transport sector.

Opposition to Proposed Fees

Despite supporting the action plan, the ICS expresses concerns regarding planned port fees. The organization explicitly opposes the introduction of a general infrastructure or security fee for foreign-built commercial vessels. The ICS warns that fees based on the weight of imported tonnage would represent a „significant cost burden“ for maritime transport. These could range from 1 cent to 25 cents per kilogram.

The Chamber emphasizes that such measures could distort trade and increase costs for U.S. consumers and businesses. Additionally, there is a risk that the flow of global trade could be disrupted and that the plan could provoke retaliatory measures from other countries. The ICS advocates for trade at sea to be conducted efficiently and without unnecessary obstacles. The global nature of maritime transport requires coordinated solutions from policymakers to avoid unintended consequences for supply chains and economic stability.

www.ics-shipping.org