Legis
Manufacturing
Executive order · Wednesday 9 April 2025

Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance

Listen to the summary
0:00

  • Context and Overview

    • The United States' commercial shipbuilding capacity and maritime workforce have declined due to government neglect, impacting national security.
    • The U.S. constructs less than 1% of global commercial ships, while China produces about 50%.
    • A comprehensive approach is needed to address these issues, including federal funding, competitive vessel production, and workforce development.

  • Policy Directive

    • The U.S. aims to revitalize its maritime industries and workforce to enhance national security and economic prosperity.

  • Maritime Action Plan (MAP)

    • Due within 210 days, led by the Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs (APNSA) with several key department heads.
    • The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) will assess legislative, regulatory, and fiscal issues related to the MAP.
    • The MAP must comply with the Buy American Act and consider various sections of the order.

  • Assessment Actions

    • Within 180 days, the Secretary of Defense and others will assess options for using authorities and resources to invest in the Maritime Industrial Base, focusing on shipbuilding and supply chains.
    • Identify key components in the supply chain for prioritization and ensure public/private investments are based on clear metrics.

  • Trade and Tariffs

    • The USTR will gather information for actions from a Section 301 investigation on the PRC's maritime targeting, potentially proposing tariffs on certain equipment to address competition.

  • Foreign Cargo Regulations

    • To prevent evasion of the Harbor Maintenance Fee, the Secretary of Homeland Security will require foreign cargo to clear U.S. Customs at designated ports.

  • International Collaboration

    • Within 90 days, the USTR will engage with allies on potential actions taken under this order and develop a progress report.

  • Financial Incentives

    • The Secretary of Commerce will recommend incentives for foreign shipbuilders to partner with U.S. firms within 90 days.

  • Funding Proposal

    • A Maritime Security Trust Fund will be proposed by the OMB Director for reliable funding linked to tax revenue and other sources.

  • Workforce Development

    • A report will be submitted to address maritime workforce challenges, including credentialing and educational reforms, within 90 days.

  • Acquisition Strategies

    • A proposal to improve acquisition strategies for government vessels will be developed within 90 days, aimed at enhancing efficiency and reducing costs.

  • Regulatory Review

    • Within 30 days, a review of procurement regulations will be conducted to identify opportunities for deregulation and cost reduction.

  • Increased Vessel Availability

    • A legislative proposal for adequate commercial vessel availability for national security will be delivered within 180 days.

  • Arctic Strategy

    • A strategy for securing Arctic waterways will be developed within 90 days.

  • Interagency Coordination

    • All plans and reports will involve interagency coordination and comply with national directives.

  • Implementation and Legal Considerations

    • The order emphasizes compliance with laws and appropriations, stating it does not create enforceable rights against the U.S. entities.