US targets Piraeus port - Plan to limit Chinese presence

According to a Reuters report, this initiative stems from fears in Washington that China, through state-owned or state-linked companies, has gained significant control over critical port infrastructure that could be used in the event of a geopolitical crisis, for espionage or to disrupt supply chains.

As part of this effort, the US is considering various options: from strengthening shipbuilding and commercial shipping under US control, to promoting private investment in ports where China has a stake, as well as imposing customs or other regulatory measures.

First, regarding Piraeus:

COSCO (China Ocean Shipping Company), one of the largest Chinese port and shipping companies, owns 67% of the share capital of Piraeus Port Authority (Piraeus Port Authority).

According to Reuters sources, the US strategy specifically includes Piraeus as an example of a port in which China's moves to expand its influence are already underway.

In January 2025, the US Department of Defense placed COSCO on a list of companies considered to be cooperating with the Chinese military.

Inclusion on this list does not automatically entail economic sanctions, but is intended to discourage US companies from doing business with COSCO.

The Greek government, as well as port sector players, are examining the potential implications of this move – although so far, there does not appear to be any disruption to operations at the port of Piraeus.

The US is considering supporting the participation of private Western companies or investors to acquire stakes in ports where China has a stake.

There is also consideration of extending control to shipyards, to the records of ships registered under the US flag or under the control of US authorities, and more generally to strengthen “shipping lines” that the country can use militarily or economically in times of crisis.

COSCO has denied that its units on the list are related to the Chinese military, and maintains that its activities are operating normally.

The Greek side states that it has not been officially informed of any plans to change the ownership or management of Piraeus due to American concerns.

According to Reuters, Washington has launched the largest effort to strengthen its maritime and port influence since the 1970s, aiming to limit China's growing control over strategic ports around the world.