Foreign 'Bansho' Vessel Seeks U.S. Coastal Trade Approval
Published Date: 4/14/2026
Notice
Summary
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V BANSHO, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision could affect U.S. shipbuilders and businesses using American-made vessels. Comments are open until May 14, 2026, so now’s the time to weigh in!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Potential Harm to U.S. Shipbuilders
If you are a U.S. vessel builder or a U.S. coastal business that uses U.S.-built vessels, MARAD is asking whether the foreign-built M/V BANSHO (a small passenger vessel authorized to carry no more than 12 passengers for hire) should be allowed in U.S. coastwise trade. MARAD is seeking comments through May 14, 2026, on whether allowing this use would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses that employ U.S.-built vessels.
Possible Coastwise Endorsement for M/V BANSHO
If MARAD determines that allowing the foreign-built M/V BANSHO would not adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses, the U.S. Coast Guard may issue a certificate of documentation with a coastwise trade endorsement so the vessel can operate in U.S. coastal trade carrying up to 12 passengers for hire. Interested parties may submit comments on this request through May 14, 2026.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous: 2026-07192 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V THE SALTY LADY
The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether the foreign-built small passenger vessel, S/V THE SALTY LADY, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision could affect U.S. boat builders and businesses that use American-made vessels. Comments are open until May 14, 2026, so jump in and share your thoughts before then!
Next: 2026-07194 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V CILANTRO
The U.S. Department of Transportation is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V CILANTRO, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision affects U.S. boat builders and businesses using American-made vessels. Comments are open until May 14, 2026, so speak up if you have thoughts on protecting U.S. maritime jobs and trade!