FMC Refreshes List of Government-Controlled Ocean Carriers
Published Date: 4/18/2025
Notice
Summary
The Federal Maritime Commission just updated the list of ocean carriers controlled by foreign governments. These carriers now face extra rules to keep trade fair and stop unfair pricing that could hurt U.S. businesses. If you work with or compete against these carriers, watch for new oversight starting now—this could impact how shipping rates and contracts are handled.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Chipolbrok Added to Controlled Carriers
The Federal Maritime Commission added Chinese-Polish Joint Stock Shipping Company ("Chipolbrok", RPI No. 020107) to the controlled carrier list in the April 18, 2025 notice. Chipolbrok is now subject to the Shipping Act provisions at 46 U.S.C. 40701-40706 and to 46 U.S.C. 40502(f), meaning it faces enhanced Commission oversight.
Commission Can Block Unjustified Rates
Under 46 U.S.C. 40701(b), the Commission may, after notice and opportunity for a hearing, prohibit the publication or use of a rate, charge, classification, rule, or regulation that a controlled carrier cannot demonstrate is just and reasonable. That authority applies to all carriers on the Commission's controlled carrier list.
Dispute Forums Must Be Independent
Under 46 U.S.C. 40502(f), in an action for breach of a service contract the dispute resolution forum cannot be controlled by or affiliated with a controlled carrier or the government that owns or controls that carrier. This protects parties to service contracts from forums tied to the controlling government or carrier.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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The Federal Maritime Commission is renewing its info collection through a web portal where the public can share complaints, concerns, and requests related to ocean shipping. This helps the agency follow the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022 and reduce paperwork hassle. If you want to share your thoughts, you’ve got until December 4, 2026, to comment—no fees involved, just your voice!
2026-17876, Charge Complaint Procedures
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2026-17877, Notice of Agreements Filed
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2026-16271, Renewal of Agency Information Collections of Previously Approved Collections; Ocean Transportation Intermediaries; 3072-0018; 60-Day Public Comment Request
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2026-16345, Notice of Agreements Filed
2026-14646, MAC Industries Inc. dba MAC Container Line, Complainant v. COSCO Shipping Lines Co., Ltd., COSCO Shipping Lines (North America) Inc., and COSCO Shipping Lines (India) Private, Respondents; Notice of Filing of Amended Complaint
MAC Container Line is taking on COSCO Shipping for charging unfair detention fees and blocking future bookings. This fight affects shipping companies and could change how ocean carriers handle fees and contracts. COSCO must respond within 25 days, with a final decision expected by mid-2027, so keep an eye on your shipping bills!
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