BUSINESS

U.S. Proposes Tax on Foreign-Built Ships That Could Raise $1.5 Trillion

Published: Feb. 18, 2026 3:55 a.m. GMT+8

00:00

00:00/00:00

Listen to this article 1x

Cargo ships at the Port of Long Beach and the Port of Los Angeles in California, U.S., on Sept. 22, 2021. Photo: IC

The U.S. has proposed new fees on foreign-built commercial ships entering its ports — a levy that the White House says could generate up to $1.5 trillion over a decade — alongside a separate tax on goods crossing land borders.

The proposal is part of America’s Maritime Action Plan, a 37-page policy document released by the White House. The plan follows President Donald Trump’s April 2025 executive order to restore America’s maritime dominance and introduces two new levies after a previous round of port fees targeting China was suspended last year.

You've accessed an article available only to subscribers

Subscribe today for just $.99.

VIEW OPTIONS

Unlock exclusive discounts with a Caixin group subscription — ideal for teams and organizations.

Subscribe to both Caixin Global and The Wall Street Journal — for the price of one.

Share this article

Open WeChat and scan the QR code

DIGEST HUB

Digest Hub

Back

Explore the story in 30 seconds

The U.S. proposes new fees on foreign-built commercial ships, potentially raising up to $1.5 trillion over 10 years, and a 0.125% land border tax on imports.
Over 99% of ships calling at U.S. ports are foreign-built; most carry goods from China, Japan, or South Korea.
Industry groups warn the measures could distort trade, increase consumer costs, and provoke international retaliation; Congressional approval is required.

AI generated, for reference only

Who’s Who

International Chamber of Shipping: The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), based in London, reacted swiftly to the proposed U.S. fees. In a statement on February 16, the ICS warned that these fees would lead to a "huge additional cost burden," distort trade, and escalate expenses for American businesses and consumers. The organization also cautioned that the policy could disrupt supply chains and incite international retaliatory measures.

AI generated, for reference only