Americans support Trump's push to boost U.S. shipbuilding

A recent poll shows that most Americans support President Donald Trump's initiative to revitalize U.S. shipbuilding. The survey, conducted by Morning Consult for the Alliance for American Manufacturing, found that 72% of respondents believe the U.S. should not depend on China and other countries for ship production. Concerns about China's influence in the global shipping industry are significant. Only 11% of those surveyed feel the U.S. can rely on foreign manufacturers for both commercial and military ship needs. AAM President Scott Paul noted a rare moment of bipartisan agreement, with strong backing from lawmakers for increasing shipbuilding efforts. The poll results come ahead of a hearing by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. This hearing will discuss proposed measures, including a fee of up to $1.5 million for ships built in China entering U.S. ports. These proposals were made after an investigation revealed China's unfair dominance in shipbuilding and logistics. Public opinion is clear on several points. About 68% see the ability to build ships as crucial to national security. Meanwhile, 71% want government investment in the shipbuilding industry, and 70% believe using Chinese-built docks for U.S. military repairs poses security risks. Support for docking fees on Chinese vessels is strong, with 49% in favor. Additionally, 56% support requiring U.S. exports to be carried on American-made ships with U.S. crews. Trump is expected to enhance his shipbuilding plans soon, which include imposing import fees on Chinese-made vessels and offering tax credits to boost U.S. shipbuilding.