Foreign Boat AK-6447-AX Eyes US Coastwise Trade Waiver
Published Date: 10/8/2026
Notice
Summary
The U.S. Department of Transportation is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel carrying up to 12 passengers should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision could impact U.S. boat builders and businesses using American-made vessels. Comments are due by November 9, 2026, so now’s the time to weigh in!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Foreign-built 12‑passenger vessel could get coastwise endorsement
If MARAD determines the proposed use will not adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses, the U.S. Coast Guard may issue a certificate of documentation with a coastwise trade endorsement allowing a foreign-built small passenger vessel that carries no more than 12 passengers for hire to operate in U.S. coastwise trade.
Potential harm to U.S. vessel builders and operators
MARAD is asking whether allowing this foreign-built small passenger vessel to engage in coastwise trade would have an undue adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or on U.S. coastwise trade businesses that employ U.S.-built vessels; interested parties may submit comments by November 9, 2026, to document any alleged undue adverse effect.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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