UNITED STATES - As the conflict with Iran continues, rising prices and supply disruptions have been felt at home. To combat this stress, the Trump administration announced on Wednesday, March 18, that it would enact a 60-day waiver of Jones Act shipping regulations.
"President Trump’s decision to issue a 60-day Jones Act waiver is just another step to mitigate the short-term disruptions to the oil market as the U.S. military continues meeting the objectives of Operation Epic Fury," White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said to Reuters. “This action will allow vital resources like oil, natural gas, fertilizer, and coal to flow freely to U.S. ports for sixty days, and the Administration remains committed to continuing to strengthen our critical supply chains.”
Since the U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28, 2026, gasoline prices have surged. Iran has effectively blocked off the Strait of Hormuz, the outlet for roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquified natural gas supplies.
The conflict has also disrupted fertilizer supplies, a major concern for U.S. agricultural producers.
According to Reuters, under the Jones Act, goods shipped between U.S. ports must be carried on vessels that are U.S.-built, U.S.-flagged, and mostly U.S.-owned. This requirement limits the number of tankers available for domestic shipments, but is supported by maritime industry unions.
Analysts noted that waiving the rule temporarily would allow foreign ships to carry cargoes between U.S. ports, potentially lowering shipping costs and speeding deliveries, but the impact on pump prices will likely be minimal.
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