I am looking forward to addressing the 2025 American Association of Port Authorities Legislative Summit later this month and highlighting issues of interest and concern.
Seaports are vital economic engines providing benefits to Americans well beyond the docks. These facilities directly and indirectly create jobs and revenue for cities, states, and even entire geographic regions hundreds of miles removed from any quay. Promoting the competitiveness of American ports is a key priority for me as Chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission.
Cost is always a consideration when making service decisions and I will continue the close scrutiny the Commission has given to fees and surcharges. We are committed to guarding against any unreasonable fees and charges that might make it more expensive to use U.S. ports.
Similarly, regulatory uncertainty can be an impediment to efficient operations. To avoid questions or confusion, Commission staff will continue their regular meetings with carriers and marine terminal operators where frank, helpful conversations lead to clarity about best practices and achieving compliance.
Ports are more than merely gateways for commerce. They are distinct entities that are essential parts of the U.S. domestic economy. I support achieving greater growth and prosperity for American-based companies, and that includes our Nation’s ports. Allowing cargo that is U.S. origin or U.S. destined to transit other countries’ shores is lost business.
There is an opportunity to achieve greater synthesis between our port and energy sectors. The United States can and should be an energy exporter. We must move forward expeditiously in developing the infrastructure necessary to export energy products, especially Liquified Natural Gas. The transition of ocean shipping from carbon intensive fuels similarly represents a business opportunity for American companies. Our ports must be nimble and decisive in being able to meet the emerging fuel needs of vessel operators.
My overarching objectives as Chairman are to use the Commission’s authorities to promote trade and yield benefits to U.S. companies. I am prepared to take on discriminatory practices against U.S. interests, or conditions that are more broadly unfavorable to ocean shipping. I want to know when American companies and interests face hinderances to doing business in shipping, logistics and international trade.
I am particularly concerned with the conduct of two nations—the People’s Republic of China and the Islamic Republic of Iran. Neither of these countries are benign actors and their respective actions not only work against American interests but undermine the stability of the international systems that move trade. The Iranians must be deprived of the ability to use shadow fleets to smuggle their oil in return for cash that perpetuates the regime and promotes the pursuit of nuclear weapons. China’s use of trade and development deals spreads influence and capabilities that only benefits Beijing.
Chairman Louis E. Sola is a Commissioner with the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission. The thoughts and comments expressed here are his own and do not necessarily represent the position of the Commission.