The US Federal Maritime Commission has proposed a 200,000 dollar voyage fee for Spanish-flagged ships and restrictions on selected Spanish imports after investigating port access. The regulator accuses Spain of creating unfavorable conditions for US shipping. Public comments and an opportunity for a hearing will precede a decision on the proposed measures. The measures are not yet in force.
The US Federal Maritime Commission, which regulates international ocean shipping, proposed a 200,000 dollar fee for each voyage by a Spanish-flagged vessel and restrictions on selected Spanish imports on 14 October. The proposals follow its investigation into Spain’s refusal to admit certain US-flagged vessels to its ports. The commission says those restrictions created unfavorable conditions for US shipping.[1], [2]
The commission opened the investigation in December 2024 to examine restrictions affecting US foreign trade. The vessels concerned included ships carrying cargo under the US Maritime Administration’s Maritime Security Program, which supports shipping capacity for commerce and national security. The regulator says it found conclusive evidence that Spain denied US-flagged ships access. That conclusion is the American agency’s finding in the dispute.[1]
Possible import restrictions cover perfumery and cosmetics, oils and fats, ceramics, articles of stone, and sugar and confectionery. The voyage fee would apply generally to Spanish-flagged vessels, while the separate import proposal targets those categories of goods.[1]
The measures are not yet in force. The commission is seeking written public comments on all aspects of them, including potential effects, before deciding which remedy to adopt. Spain will also be offered an opportunity for a hearing on the matter.[1]
