U.S. Maritime Regulator Considers Tough Penalties Over Spain Port Dispute

Presently U.S. Maritime Regulators are considering tough penalties over Spain port dispute and several USA agencies including FMC (Federal Maritime Commission) is investigating the actions taken by Spain government to prevent few US Flag vessels entering Spanish ports.

Understanding the dispute – Since November 2024 Spain has stopped few US flag vessels from entering its port stating that the vessels were carrying the cargo linked to Israel. As per USA agencies, its against the USA maritime laws and now since it has become regular and has come in the view USA president thus chances are high that USA may take reciprocal actions.

Below are the  three vessel of USA flag which were denied entry to Spanish ports

• Maersk Denver – denied entry in November 2024.

• Maersk Seletar – denied entry in November 2024.

• Maersk Nysted – also reported as denied entry in November 2024.

  
  

Why Its important for USA

Under the maritime laws of United States of America, foreign governments shouldn’t create “unfavourable conditions” for American shipping in international trade. As per FMC, Spain has been doing it since November 2024. If the investigation reports mentions that Spanish government was violating it and creating unfavourable conditions, then USA will take reciprocal actions , which is expected.

Actions expected by USA

• Penalty to Spanish flag vessel calling at USA port at the rate of USD 2.3 million per voyage or more.

• Tariff on Spanish Cargo imports to USA

• Denial of Spanish ships entry to USA

  
  

Current status of USA actions

The action depends on the report submitted by FMC.

Presently FMC is taking feedback from USA maritime stakeholders and from 22nd December 2025, the public dialogue program will also begin as a part of the feedback.

Please follow us, will keep you updated

(The Image used above is generated by AI)