BIMCO has begun drafting a contractual clause to address new "Special Port Fees��imposed by China on October 14 for ships with US links, reported Saint Petersburg's PortNews.

The Chinese Ministry of Transport announced that vessels arriving at Chinese ports will be subject to the fees if they are US-built, flagged, owned or operated by US entities, with limited exceptions.

BIMCO Secretary General and CEO David Loosley said the clause aims to reduce contractual uncertainty amid rising geopolitical tensions and trade restrictions. He noted a similar clause was developed earlier this year for US Trade Representative fees on Chinese-related ships.

A BIMCO subcommittee of legal and commercial experts has been formed to draft the new clause, which has been given priority status by the Documentary Committee.

Deputy Secretary General and Director of Contracts Stinne Taiger Ivo said the expedited procedure used for the USTR Clause will be applied again to respond swiftly to industry enquiries.