The legislation mandates a study by the Secretary of Defense on strategic ports and their significance to the U.S.
The study will examine:
The strategic importance of various ports.
China’s activities and plans to expand control over strategic ports globally.
Involvement of public and private entities, such as the China Ocean Shipping Company, in these activities.
China’s efforts to enhance maritime logistics and set industry standards.
Potential risks to U.S. national security and economic interests from China’s control of these ports.
Recommendations for U.S. measures to ensure open access and security at strategic ports.
The Secretary of Defense may collaborate with a federally funded research and development center for the study.
A report detailing the study’s findings must be submitted to Congress within one year of enactment.
The report will include:
Lists and assessments of strategic ports controlled by China and the U.S.
Vulnerability assessments of U.S. ports and strategic ports.
Analysis of China’s strategies to gain control over strategic ports.
Suggested strategies for securing U.S. interests in strategic ports, including existing and needed authorities, cost assessments, and funding sources.
A strategy for federal agencies to maintain an updated list of strategic ports.
The report will be unclassified but may include a classified annex if necessary.
Definitions provided for key terms, including “appropriate congressional committees,” “relevant United States government offices,” and “strategic port.”
