U.S. trade unions and industry groups are rallying against proposed tariffs on China-made cargo ships, warning of ripple effects across the economy. A draft executive order could impose fees on Chinese vessels docking at U.S. ports to fund domestic shipbuilding, but critics say the move might backfire, hiking costs for retailers, farmers, and consumers.
🌊 ‘This is like fixing a leaky boat by drilling more holes’, one expert told CGTN. With supply chains still recovering from pandemic strains, new tariffs could delay deliveries of everything from electronics to grain, squeezing businesses already battling inflation.
🇺🇸 The Biden administration argues the plan would revamp America’s shipyard industry, but opponents urge a ‘reality check’. Over 95% of the U.S. commercial fleet is foreign-made, with China dominating global production. Sudden tariffs could spark price spikes before U.S. factories can scale up.
⚖️ The debate highlights the tightrope walk between protecting industries and keeping global trade flowing. For now, the proposal remains in draft stage – but with midterm elections looming, the stakes are rising faster than a container ship’s anchor.
