China's reciprocal port fee programme, launched on October 14, has prompting immediate changes in shipping routes and hefty charges for some carriers.

Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have diverted vessels to avoid the new US$56 per net ton fee, reports Fort Lauderdale's Maritime Executive.

Hapag's 7,323-TEU Potomac Express skipped Ningbo and discharged China-bound cargo in Busan, South Korea. Maersk redirected cargo to the 7,450-TEU Maersk Luz, with both vessels set to meet in Kwangyang on October 24 for container transfer.

Maersk Kinloss (6,200 TEU), en route from Los Angeles, also bypassed Ningbo and will discharge in Busan. Maersk plans to use a shuttle to transship containers from China to South Korea.

Matson's Manukai (2,378 TEU) docked in Ningbo and Shanghai, potentially incurring nearly US$630,000 in fees. Xinde Marine News calculated the charge based on its 11,149 net tonnage, though officials have not confirmed collection.

Caixin Global reports Matson Waikiki, chartered by Matson and flying the Liberian flag, arrived in Shanghai on October 14. With a net tonnage of 30,224, the vessel faces an estimated US$1.7 million in fees under China's new schedule.

China's Ministry of Commerce criticized US port fees and restrictions, urging Washington to "correct its wrongdoings" and engage sincerely in trade talks, according to Beijing's Global Times.

BBC cited analyst Claire Chong of Thurlestone Shipping, who warned dry bulk carriers could face up to US$3 million in fees now, and over US$10 million by 2028 for the largest vessels.

Pole Star Global reported a sharp decline in interest in Chinese vessels, with screenings dropping from 1,678 in January to near zero. Chief Data & Analytics Officer Saleem Khan said the fees are already reshaping shipping behaviour.