Biden Administration to Impose Tariffs on Chinese Ship-to-Shore Cranes Amid Security Concerns

President Biden has announced plans to impose 25% tariffs on Chinese-manufactured ship-to-shore (STS) cranes and other strategic sectors in a move to curtail China’s unfair trade practices.

The increased tariff rates, due to take effect in 2024, are part of a broader strategy to safeguard American workers, companies, and supply chains. The move also comes amid heightened concerns about the security of U.S. ports and potential cybersecurity threats from Chinese-manufactured port equipment.

Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries (ZPMC), a firm with close ties to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), is a major supplier of STS cranes to ports both in the U.S. and globally. The company has come under heightened scrutiny over its affiliations with the CCP and concerns that its equipment could used as spying tools by China.

STS cranes are integral to port operations, facilitating the movement of goods from ship to shore. However, concerns have been raised about the security of U.S. ports due to suspicions that cranes have about embedded used by China for espionage purposes.

To enhance port security, the White House issued an Executive Order in February, aimed at enhancing national security, strengthening supply chains, and improving maritime cybersecurity. As part of this initiative, the Biden Administration committed to a $20 billion investment to bolster the return of domestic STS crane manufacturing in the U.S.

Unlock Exclusive Insights Today!

Join the gCaptain Club for curated content, insider opinions, and vibrant community discussions.

Sign Up