Effort to secure U.S. ports moves forward as house passes ‘Maritime Supply Chain Security Act’

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Efforts to strengthen port security and protect the U.S. supply chain are moving forward on Capitol Hill. 

A bill introduced by congressman David Rouzer is now one step closer to becoming law. 

The Maritime Supply Chain Security Act, a bill introduced by congressman David Rouzer passed in the house.  

It aims to reduce America’s dependence on foreign technology at critical shipping hubs. 

“A critical step towards strengthening our port infrastructure and national security by expanding the illegible use of the port infrastructure development program, to include the replacement of Chinese hardware and software most notably Chinese cranes,” Rouzer said on the house floor. 

A spokesperson with the Port of Wilmington says their container cranes were manufactured in China and the software is produced by a Swedish company.  

Dr. Ulku Clark, the director of the Center for Cyber Defense Education at UNCW, says maritime security is important. 

“Because globally about 90% of the trade is coming through maritime means,” Clark recalled. 

Clark says a cyberattack on these systems could have serious consequences.  

“These technologies could be exploited for espionage or distribution of operations. The ports are gateways of commerce, but they are also strategic infrastructure critical to military logistics and the national resilience,” Clark shared. 

According to Clark, this legislation is a step in the right direction.  

“I think what the U.S. Government is doing, great that they are keeping the maritime supply chain cyber security up front and it is a vital step in safeguarding our maritime future which is important for transporting goods and our way of living,” Clark stated. 

Rouzer says this step is crucial for national security. 

“Taking this step is not just about upgrading infrastructure it’s about protecting our economy, safeguarding national security and ensuring American ports remain under American control,” Rouzer expressed. 

Clark adds, UNCW is one of the few places in the U.S. doing research for maritime cyber-security and the program received multiple grants for their studies. 

UNCW researchers are working on many different things including purchasing a bridge simulator, learn more here.