World Maritime News
WMNF 03/09/2025
Port call data reveals China’s trade pivot as tariffs turbocharge rerouting
China is significantly restructuring its global trade routes in response to rising tariffs and geopolitical tensions. Data from port calls shows a decline in Chinese exports to the US, while direct shipping connections to emerging markets—especially in Southeast Asia and Africa—are increasing. This shift reflects a broader realignment of global supply chains, with China deepening ties with non-Western economies and bypassing traditional trade corridors. The rerouting is creating new complexities in global logistics and signaling a long-term transformation in international trade patterns.
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Cosco Shipping Ports silent on CK Hutchison deal but commits to continued expansion
Executives at Cosco Shipping Ports (CSP) declined to comment on the still-unresolved sale of CK Hutchison’s port assets, but said the company would press ahead with its overseas expansion. CSP would focus on markets in Southeast Asia, Latin America and Africa, where economic and trade growth was expected to remain strong in the foreseeable future. Growth in throughput and profitability at overseas terminals, particularly in the Mediterranean and the Middle East, lifted CSP’s net profit by 30.6% year on year in the first half of 2025 to $181.8m. Total throughput increased 6.4% to 74.3 million TEUs.
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Still no final USTR rule less than two months before port fee deadline
The US Trade Representative (USTR) has yet to finalize its rule on port fees for China-built ships, despite a deadline for implementation set for October 14, 2025. The delay is creating uncertainty for shipping lines, which are unable to estimate potential surcharges. Although the original plan has been significantly watered down, it will still impose notable costs. The lack of clarity is complicating strategic planning and could disrupt US port operations if not resolved soon.
Read more: Lloyd’s List