Rebuilding shipbuilding and reshaping fleet economics
The U.S. Maritime Action Plan, released on February 13, 2026, sets out a long-term strategy to revive the US shipbuilding industry and strengthen the U.S.-flag fleet. With less than 1% of global commercial ships built in the United States and only 66 shipyards nationwide, Washington links industrial capacity directly to national and economic security. The plan proposes multiyear contracting, drydock modernization, AI-driven design, and expanded federal financing to stabilize the maritime industrial base. A proposed universal fee on foreign-built vessels calling at US ports—potentially up to $0.25 per kg of imported cargo—could significantly affect global liner operators and trade costs.
Cargo preference, Arctic access and strategic competition
The plan also tightens cargo preference rules and introduces a United States Maritime Preference Requirement, potentially redirecting volumes toward US-built and US-flag tonnage. A 0.125% land port maintenance tax aims to prevent cargo diversion via Canada or Mexico. The proposed Strategic Commercial Fleet would financially support internationally trading US vessels, reinforcing sealift capacity. The roadmap further highlights Arctic route development, icebreaking expansion, autonomous vessels, and potential Section 301 measures targeting China’s maritime dominance. None of the fees are yet in force, but legislative proposals after FY2027 could reshape shipping economics.
Here the full plan released by The White House.
For additional industry analysis, see independent reporting by The Loadstar on evolving US maritime policy.
