The Trump administration's new plan aims to enhance US maritime strength through a trust fund and improved shipbuilding capacity.
The Trump administration has unveiled a sweeping plan to revitalize the US maritime sector, centered on a new Maritime Security Trust Fund financed largely by fees on foreign-built vessels calling at US ports, reported New York's Journal of Commerce.
The plan, called 'America's Maritime Action Plan,' proposes a universal infrastructure or security fee on foreign-built commercial ships, assessed by the weight of imported cargo. Two scenarios were outlined: a levy of one cent per kilogram could raise US$66 billion over 10 years, while 25 cents per kg might yield $1.5 trillion. The administration stated that the policy would ensure foreign vessels contribute to rebuilding US maritime strength.
The blueprint also calls for rebuilding domestic shipbuilding capacity, expanding the fleet of US-built and flagged vessels, and easing regulatory burdens. Currently, only eight US shipyards can build ships longer than 400 feet, and the plan seeks investment in modernizing drydocks, cranes, and automated handling systems to boost production.
A separate Land Port Maintenance Tax is proposed at 0.125 percent of the value of goods entering by land, with proceeds funding infrastructure improvements through a new trust fund. The plan also envisions a Strategic Commercial Fleet of US-built vessels to support military logistics and secure supply chains.
Many measures require Congressional approval. The administration indicated it will send a legislative package alongside the fiscal year 2027 budget request, urging lawmakers to act to strengthen the maritime industry against global competition and bolster national defense.
