Labour Unions Urge President Trump to Enhance US Shipbuilding Amidst Rising Chinese Dominance

Four prominent labour union leaders have urged President Donald Trump to strengthen the US shipbuilding industry and impose tariffs on China. The leaders of the United Steelworkers, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, and International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers believe China's actions harm American workers and national security.

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In a letter draft obtained by AP, they asked Trump to enforce strict penalties on ships built under the Chinese Communist Party's influence. They also suggested policies to revitalise America's shipbuilding capacity and workforce. This follows a petition filed last year under President Joe Biden, aiming to address China's shipbuilding practices through Section 301 of the 1974 US Trade Act.

China's Shipbuilding Dominance

The letter highlights that China produced over 1,000 ocean-going vessels in 2023, while the US constructed fewer than ten. It also mentions that from 2010 to 2018, China's shipyards received more than USD 100 billion in government support, leading them to dominate global orders last year.

Trump has prioritised controlling the Panama Canal and reshaping global trade terms with tariffs. However, his focus has often been on US allies like Canada, Mexico, and the European Union. He has imposed a 10% additional tariff on Chinese imports due to their involvement in producing the opioid fentanyl.

Reviving American Shipbuilding

In January, Trump discussed increasing shipbuilding in an interview with conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt. "We don't build ships anymore," Trump stated. He expressed interest in restarting ship production and possibly collaborating with allies for this purpose.

During a Fox News Channel interview aired on Tuesday night, Trump acknowledged the decline in American shipbuilding. "We don't build the way we used to build," he remarked. He noted that constructing a ship was once routine but is now considered significant. Trump emphasised his intention to restore the country's shipbuilding prowess.

The union leaders' call for action reflects growing concerns about China's influence in global shipbuilding and its impact on American jobs and security. Their appeal aims to prompt policy changes that could revitalise the US shipbuilding industry.