The Perplexities of the U. S. Marine Transportation System

The U. S. merchant marine, today, is struggling to attain physical and economic health, but it is a formidable undertaking since approximately 95 percent of U. S. ocean-borne trade is currently being carried by foreign flag vessels. As used in this paper, the marine transportation system will focus upon the well-balanced aspects of maritime activities. Emphasis will be placed on the carriage of water-borne commerce and related supportive activities and industries. This paper, with only the broadest of perspectives, attempts to make some general comments concerning the economies of the marine transportation system and the interrelationships between marine transportation modes and related industry