New port fees on Chinese built and operated vessels are set to take effect in the United States on October 14, 2025. The policy has already triggered significant responses by global carriers, through redeploying vessels and even reflagging fleets, and the ripple effects are only beginning. For shippers, the implications go far beyond higher charges. To unpack what this means for the industry, Lars Jensen, global liner shipping expert and CEO of Vespucci Maritime, shared his perspective on the Freight Buyers’ Club podcast. Their discussion went beyond the headlines to examine the transpacific slowdown, emerging growth markets, and the outlook for Asia-Europe trade.
