The White House is considering extending waivers that permit foreign-flagged vessels to transport goods between American ports, with two sources familiar with the matter saying renewed conflict with Iran is fueling concerns about energy costs and potential supply chain disruptions.
Under the plan being discussed, the Trump administration is looking at extending these waivers with geographic limitations — meaning foreign ships would only be allowed to operate on certain routes between U.S. ports. The approach is seen as a way to keep a tool officials say has eased supply pressures, while also responding to complaints from maritime industry groups and Republican allies.
Earlier this week, the White House held meetings with officials from the Energy, Transportation, and Interior departments to review available options. Sources say a decision could come before the end of July, though the existing waiver is not set to expire until August 16.
A White House official confirmed that no final call has been made on whether to issue a third extension of the waiver. “President Trump’s decisive action to waive the Jones Act has helped prevent supply chain shortages across the country. The Administration is regularly monitoring how the waiver is being used,” the official stated.
