Li Yanqing, the executive vice-president and secretary general of the China Association of the National Shipbuilding Industry (Cansi), recently shared insights on the complexities involved in reviving the US shipbuilding industry. According to Li, while the United States may have its plans for revitalization, there are substantial hurdles that must be surmounted to achieve significant progress within a short time frame. Li specifically calls out the high port fees in the US as 'absurd' and suggests that they are influenced by political motivations rather than market realities.

In the discussion, Li emphasizes that despite global economic fluctuations, China's position in the shipbuilding sector remains strong and well-established. He notes that China's pivot towards high-quality manufacturing is a strategic move that enhances its competitive advantage. This approach not only brings stability to China's shipbuilding industry but also solidifies its market lead against international competitors, including the US.

Li also expresses a willingness for cooperation, acknowledging that the Chinese shipbuilding sector does not oppose efforts by the US to strengthen its own industry. However, he cautions that expecting an overnight transformation is unrealistic based on professional standards within the complex and capital-intensive shipbuilding industry. His views highlight the intricacies of global maritime trade dynamics and the differing approaches between the US and China in shipbuilding practices.