“We oppose the port fees": World Shipping Council on potential port fees targeting Chinese-built ships

“We oppose the port fees because they are going to have a severe effect on the U.S. economy and, in particular, agricultural exporters and farmers.”

The ag sector is keeping a close eye on potential port fees targeting Chinese-built ships. While it aims to strengthen the administration’s “America first” trade agenda, many are concerned it could result in increased costs for U.S. farmers.

CEO of the World Shipping Council, Joe Kramek spoke with RFD-TV’s own Suzanne Alexander on testifying at the USTR hearing, ripple effects on farm exports, and what this will mean for the ag economy.

Related Stories
USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg joined us with a recap of the Malaysia trade mission and a look at USDA’s broader trade strategy moving forward.
Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition shares how extreme winter weather is affecting the ag transportation network and what producers should keep in mind as conditions slowly improve.
Mixed product pricing and rising milk supplies suggest margin management will remain critical as 2026 unfolds.
Corn and soybean exports continue to anchor weekly inspection totals, with China maintaining a visible role, while wheat and sorghum remain more dependent on regional and seasonal demand shifts.
Rail continues to carry a larger share of the grain load, increasing sensitivity to rail capacity, labor, and pricing conditions.
Rising import pressure and tougher export competition are likely to persist into 2026, supporting domestic supplies while capping export growth.