The announcement could come as early as Thursday, two sources familiar with the effort told Reuters, and would be aimed at combating spiking fuel prices and other disruptions since the start of the US-Israeli war on Iran. High gasoline prices carry significant political risks for President Donald Trump and fellow Republicans, who have long argued that their energy policies would keep fuel affordable for American consumers. Under the Jones Act, goods shipped between US ports must be carried on vessels that are US-built, US-flagged and mostly US-owned. Waiving the rule temporarily would allow foreign ships to carry fuel between US ports, potentially lowering shipping costs and speeding deliveries. The United States has issued Jones Act waivers in the past only sparingly, typically in response to major supply disruptions.

Source: The Edge Markets March 12, 2026 15:36 UTC