China Hits Back with New Shipping Fees as US Trade Tensions Escalate”. China has officially imposed new fees on US ships arriving at its ports, escalating a growing trade conflict with Washington. The charges, which took effect Tuesday, target vessels that are US-owned, operated, built, or flagged — but exempt Chinese-built ships. Beijing says the move is meant to "protect its shipping industry" from what it calls US "discriminatory measures.” This is a direct retaliation to US port fees set to begin on Chinese ships from October 14. The tension deepened further as the US rolled out new tariffs on timber, kitchen cabinets, and furniture — much of it imported from China. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said President Trump and President Xi are still expected to meet in South Korea later this month to ease tensions. But Beijing warned Washington that it can't demand negotiations while imposing new measures, calling that "the wrong way to engage with China.” Both sides had previously agreed to lower tariffs in May, but those hopes are now fading fast. [Instructions: THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT]