Following the COVID-19 pandemic, US ports are now asking for $6.5 billion in grants and direct assistance, to manage the challenging situation.
Specifically, Reuters reports that in a letter sent exclusively to the agency, the American Association of Port Authorities said early estimates suggest a 20% annualized reduction in cargo activity at U.S. ports, leading to a loss of $1 billion in revenue.
Consequently, the Authorities are asking for $1 billion in port grants, $1 billion in direct assistance and $4.5 billion for federal navigation channel improvement and maintenance projects.
Recently, the United States Coast Guard issued another update concerning its COVID-19 statement on March 16, adding more countries to the US’ restrictions, following WHO’s statement that the EU and the US are now the epicentre of the pandemic. Specifically, the Trump Administration announced that people coming in the US from Ireland and the UK will be banned.
