US tariffs also came into effect on imported timber, kitchen cabinets and upholstered furniture.

With less than 24 hours ahead of new U.S. government port fees on Chinese-made freight vessels, importers are grappling with additional tariffs.

China has slapped fees on U.S. ships for docking at its ports, in retaliation for similar charges imposed by Washington on Chinese ships.

US tariffs also came into effect on imported timber, kitchen cabinets and upholstered furniture.

There are concerns the new levies, meant to protect US manufacturers, could raise housing costs.

The Trump administration recently began charging fees for Chinese ships docking at U.S. ports, prompting China to retaliate.

Analysts have warned the tit-for-tat trade fees risk 'distorting global freight flows' for goods including petrol, toys.

It's the latest tit-for-tat tariff spat between the two superpowers following a period of calmed tensions.