Trump issues 60-day suspension of Jones Act.

A temporary waiver of the Jones Act -- like Trump’s 60‑day suspension -- can provide meaningful short‑term relief by allowing foreign vessels to deliver fuel and cargo more cheaply and more efficiently. (Puerto Rico Institute of Statistics)

By THE STAR STAFF

President Donald Trump has issued a 60‑day suspension of the Jones Act, the century‑old U.S. maritime law that requires cargo shipped between U.S. ports to travel on American‑built, American‑owned and American‑crewed vessels.

The White House confirmed the decision as a response to escalating disruptions in the global oil market caused by the ongoing Iran war, which has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz and strained worldwide energy supply chains. 

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the temporary waiver is intended to ensure that vital resources -- such as oil, natural gas, fertilizer, and coal -- can move more freely to U.S. ports during this period of volatility. The administration argues the measure will strengthen supply chains at a moment when Brent crude has risen above $109 per barrel and U.S. oil prices are nearing $100 per barrel. 

Economists note that fewer than 100 Jones Act‑compliant vessels exist, so the waiver opens the door for international tankers to transport fuel between U.S. ports. Still, analysts warn that the impact may be limited because many U.S. refineries are configured for heavier Middle Eastern crude, not the lighter shale oil the U.S. produces. As a result, increased shipping flexibility cannot fully resolve the structural mismatch in U.S. refining capacity. 

What it means for Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is among the U.S. jurisdictions most heavily affected by the Jones Act, because the island depends almost entirely on maritime shipping for fuel, food and other essential goods. The law has long been criticized on the island for inflating consumer prices and restricting access to the most cost‑competitive shipping options. Multiple analyses underscore that shipping constraints under the Jones Act raise transportation costs, which ultimately show up in higher prices for residents and businesses.

A temporary waiver -- like Trump’s 60‑day suspension -- can provide meaningful short‑term relief by allowing foreign vessels to deliver fuel and cargo more cheaply and more efficiently. Past waivers (including those granted after Hurricane Maria and following other disasters) eased the movement of fuel and critical supplies to the island. Analysts note that removing the restriction even briefly has historically lowered costs and improved access to essential goods.

Given the current spike in global oil prices, the waiver could help Puerto Rico reduce fuel transport costs at a time of market instability. Local businesses and consumers, already sensitive to price increases due to the island’s fragile economic environment, would likely benefit from reduced shipping expenses and improved access to energy products.