Don't Worry About the Vase Podcast Balsa Update: Springtime in DC
Jul 8, 2025
Explore the latest updates from BALSA Research on potential regulations impacting domestic waterborne trade and U.S. exports. Delve into the challenges facing U.S. shipbuilding, including limitations and Navy fleet backlogs. Learn about the complexities of new trade proposals and their implications on tariffs and restrictions. Hear insights from public hearings on port fees and how they affect the competitiveness of the shipbuilding industry. Finally, examine the intricate relationship between LNG exports and the Jones Act, along with ongoing reform efforts.
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U.S. Shipbuilding Limits Export Policy
- The U.S. cannot fulfill a proposed export policy due to insufficient shipbuilding capacity.
- Existing vessels cover only 2% of exports, far under the proposed 20% requirement, risking drastic export reductions.
Jones Act Killed Domestic Shipping
- Most people misunderstood how few ships the U.S. builds, assuming American industry produces many.
- The Jones Act has long killed domestic shipping, with industries adapting to trucks and rail.
Prioritize High-Impact Advocacy
- Focus advocacy efforts on neglected but critical policy issues rather than crowded topics.
- Target limited resources where you have unique leverage and impact, like export restrictions here.