Liner Shipping Antitrust Immunity in Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) Reauthorization

Author / Creator

Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Available as

Online

Summary

Examines ocean container line industry immunity from antitrust law, in light of upcoming Federal Maritime Commission reauthorization. Describes types of agreements liner carriers have made with one...

Examines ocean container line industry immunity from antitrust law, in light of upcoming Federal Maritime Commission reauthorization. Describes types of agreements liner carriers have made with one another, and discusses historical rationale for providing liner carriers with antitrust immunity and how U.S. law has changed over time. Explains European and Asian approach to liner conferences; and profiles U.S. overseas container trade, describing its importance to the U.S. economy, its underlying economics, and reasons for the recent export container shortage. Presents stakeholder views and issues for Congress.

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