Coast Guard Cracks Down on Shady Ports in Madagascar and Iraq
Published Date: 2/11/2026
Notice
Summary
The Coast Guard is ending special security exemptions for port facilities in Cameroon, Iraq, and Madagascar starting February 25, 2026. This means these ports will now face stricter security rules to keep U.S. waters safer from threats. If you work with or ship through these ports, expect new security checks and procedures that could affect your operations.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Port Facility Exemptions Revoked
If you work with or operate a port facility in Cameroon, Iraq, or Madagascar, your facility’s special exemption from the Port Security Advisory is revoked effective February 25, 2026. You should expect stricter security rules, new security checks, and procedures that could affect how your facility operates.
Vessels From Listed Ports Face Conditions
If you operate or hire vessels arriving in U.S. waters from ports the Coast Guard has not found to maintain effective antiterrorism measures (including the newly listed Cameroon, Iraq, and Madagascar), those vessels may be subject to conditions of entry under 46 U.S.C. 70110. The notice lists multiple countries assessed as not maintaining effective measures and the conditions can affect vessel operations and shipments.
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