China Dominates Global Shipbuilding — but Faces New US Tariffs

DID Press: US has introduced new tariffs on Chinese-built vessels in recent months, opening another front in the intensifying trade rivalry with Beijing. The move underscores the strategic importance of heavy industry as competition between the world’s two largest economies deepens.

Global figures show China remains the undisputed leader in shipbuilding, delivering 32.8 million gross tons and commanding 51 percent of global output. South Korea ranks second with 18.3 million gross tons (28 percent), followed by Japan with a 12-percent share.

Despite this dominance, China’s position is entering a more uncertain phase. Washington’s tariff policy is designed to blunt the competitiveness of Chinese yards in the U.S. market, prompting some Western buyers to reconsider orders and shift contracts toward alternative suppliers. Analysts say the policy could gradually reshape procurement patterns, while further escalating industrial tensions between the two powers.