U.S. maritime unions protest Chinese vessel operating between American ports

American mariners gathered in Garyville, Louisiana, on Thursday to protest the arrival of the Chinese-owned asphalt tanker Jin Zhou Wan (IMO 9802580), which has been transporting cargo between U.S. ports under a temporary federal waiver. The vessel, operated by COSCO, recently called at Boston, Portland, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Garyville while carrying American cargoes. Maritime Executive reported that the voyages have sparked criticism from U.S. maritime unions.

Members of the Seafarers International Union (SIU) say the ship is doing work that should be carried out by American vessels and crews under the Jones Act, which protects domestic maritime trade. “Louisiana’s mariners should not have to stand by on the dock while a Chinese state-owned shipping company takes over work that belongs on American vessels,” said SIU Gulf Coast Vice President Chris Westbrook.

The dispute is linked to a temporary White House waiver introduced after tensions in the Middle East pushed energy prices higher. The measure allows foreign vessels and crews to participate in some U.S. domestic shipping until August 16. Although Jin Zhou Wan was carrying asphalt rather than fuel, the cargo is still covered by the waiver.

Supporters of the Jones Act want the exemption to end when it expires. More than 50 Republican lawmakers have signed a letter urging the White House not to extend the program. The administration has not yet announced whether the waiver will continue beyond August.

 

Picture: Jerry Jackson/The Banner