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U.S. Terror Concerns Transforming Maritime Trade
January 11, 2002
Summary
The United States is pushing a new doctrine for maritime shipping that advocates the supremacy of U.S. security interests over global trade. This will transform the shipping industry, alter trade patterns and lead to conflicts with trading partners over issues of national sovereignty.
Admiral James M. Loy assumed duties as the 21st Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard in May 1998.
Photo Credit: USCG.Mil
Analysis
Adm. James Loy, commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, discussed during a Dec. 17 speech to the Heritage Foundation a proposal that would give U.S. inspectors authority to inspect cargo containers at their points of origin in foreign countries. The proposal is part of a larger effort within the government to push the responsibility for U.S. maritime cargo security beyond the borders of the United States.
The millions of uninspected cargo containers that enter U.S. ports every year represent a gaping hole in border security. Washington will put the onus on overseas authorities to strengthen security measures and improve the sharing of information and intelligence on incoming cargo, using its status as the world's largest importer to force companies and countries into cooperating. This emerging doctrine implies that the United States will not hesitate to intervene in countries that do not cooperate.
The enormous cost of the new security measures will handicap many exporters, especially from countries deemed high risk. Those who fall behind in security and experience customs delays will suffer a loss of market share while those who are able to quickly meet the new threshold will prosper. Washington's proposal will also put it in direct conflict with certain trading partners who will resent U.S. infringement in their own security regimes.
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(c) 2002 Stratfor, Inc.
Dan
U.S. Terror Concerns Transforming Maritime Trade . . .