"Seth Cropsey's "Build Up the Merchant Marine or Pay the Price" (Letters, July 3) is a timely reminder of a continuing problem in U.S. policy. From its post-World War II position of strength, U.S.-flag international shipping is today virtually nonexistent.
The crux of this difficulty is the controversial Jones Act, ostensibly designed to protect U.S. shipping, shipbuilding and seafarers but failing to do any of this. It has instead stultified investment in shipping, permitted lack of competition in an outdated shipbuilding sector and discouraged young Americans from a seagoing career. In other words, a century-old, reactionary, costly and protectionist piece of legislation has prevented the world's largest trading country from resuming its rightful place as a major international shipping force.
Over 90% of global trade is carried by sea in a global industry that depends on the freedom to build, trade, staff, insure and operate modern ships anywhere. Any state that attempts to restrict this will depend on nonnational-flag shipping for its international trading needs and its own flag fleet will wither away.
Edgar Gold
Brisbane, Australia" [1]
1. The Cruel Disappearance of U.S.-Flag Shipping. Wall Street Journal, Eastern edition; New York, N.Y. [New York, N.Y]. 11 July 2023: A.16.
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