US MARAD gives emphasis on cargo preference laws and regulations

The US Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) informed about the launch of newly-accredited, web-based training courses regarding cargo preference laws and regulations.

The courses were created in cooperation with Defense Acquisition University (DAU), aiming to boost comprehension of and compliance with cargo preference laws by other federal agencies, supporting contractors, and program participants, such as loan and grant recipients.

Cargo is king in the shipping business and cargo preference laws help U.S.-flag operators remain competitive and put American workers first

said Maritime Administrator Mark H. Buzby.

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Cargo preference laws and regulations protect the US’s cargo interest by statutorily mandating the use of US-flag ships for cargo bought, furnished or financed with federal funding.

US cargo preference laws require that 100% of military and at least 50% of non-military government cargo be carried on US-flag vessels.

The MARAD / DAU curricula starts with an introduction to maintaining a US-flag merchant fleet. Further courses provide further information regarding US-flag vessel requirements pertaining to government cargo.

The complimentary courses are available to the public here.