Shipping Associations Urge Restraint in Favoring U.S. Vessels and Mariners
In response to the U.S. Maritime Administration’s proposed initiative to use U.S.-flagged vessels and U.S. mariners in the transport of LNG through the nation’s offshore deepwater port receiving facilities, the International Chamber of Shipping and the International Shipping Federation caution against the adoption of policies that may violate existing free trade principles. “[I]t will be especially important to ensure that any promotional measures adopted by the United States could not be perceived as a means of giving preference to U.S. flag LNG carriers or protection from fair competition from non-U.S. flag ships that otherwise adhere fully to international standards of safety, security, environmental performance and social protection,” the agencies said in a statement submitted to MARAD this month. Lloyd’s List provides further coverage. [Subscription required]