A general view of the Victorian International container terminal in Melbourne, Australia, on April 4, 2025. Asanka Ratnayake via Getty Images
On April 10, the White House issued an Executive Order focused on restoring America’s maritime dominance and reducing reliance on foreign supply chains, especially China. The order lays out a comprehensive Maritime Action Plan (MAP) to strengthen U.S. shipbuilding, improve port infrastructure, and grow the maritime workforce.
Key components include potential new tariffs on Chinese maritime equipment, stricter customs enforcement, such as collecting full duties on goods rerouted through Canadian or Mexican ports, and the introduction of public-private funding tools to support shipyard investments. A Maritime Security Trust Fund and Shipbuilding Financial Incentives Program are among the proposed mechanisms.
The order also directs federal agencies to invest in maritime education and streamline credentialing for mariners, while reviewing regulations to encourage innovation and reduce barriers. It further aims to strengthen cargo preference laws and align international trade policies with U.S. allies.
For retailers, these developments could lead to changes in port fees, cargo routing rules, and supply chain logistics.
