The Peter Zeihan Podcast Series And You Thought the Jones Act Was Dumb... || Peter Zeihan
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Oct 8, 2025 Discover the surprising impact of tariffs on semi-trucks, which carry a staggering 90% of U.S. cargo. Find out how the Jones Act historically shifted freight from water to trucks, creating lasting consequences for transport costs. Learn about the new 100% tariff on trucks and its ripple effects on American workers and companies. Understand which regions benefit from proximity to mega-ports, escaping the brunt of these rising costs. This lively discussion opens your eyes to unexpected national security implications tied to everyday goods.
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Trucks Carry Almost All U.S. Cargo
- About 90% of U.S. domestic cargo ton-miles move by road via semi-trucks today.
- Waterways now account for roughly 1% of U.S. cargo ton-miles due to past regulation decisions.
The Jones Act’s Century-Long Impact
- Peter Zeihan recounts the historic Jones Act and its Interstate Commerce roots from the Depression era.
- He argues the law raised water transport costs fivefold and redirected freight to trains and trucks.
Tariffs Disrupt Integrated NA Supply Chains
- Tariffs on imported semi-trucks will ripple through integrated North American supply chains.
- Parts-crossing among the U.S., Mexico, and Canada means tariffs can end up taxing whole finished vehicles.