S-777 : Still Just a Bill

The "Strategic Ports Reporting Act" (S. 777) aims to address concerns regarding the People's Republic of China's (PRC) influence over strategic global ports. This bill mandates the following:

• Global Port Mapping: The Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, must develop an updated global map of foreign and domestic ports critical to the United States' military, diplomatic, economic, or resource exploration superiority. This mapping will identify any efforts by the PRC or its entities to build, buy, or otherwise control such ports, directly or indirectly. The map, along with a classified annex if necessary, will be submitted to appropriate congressional committees.
• Comprehensive Study and Report: A study will be conducted on strategic ports, focusing on:
  • The United States' interests in these ports.
  • The PRC's activities and plans to expand control over strategic ports outside its borders, including the role of public and private actors like China Ocean Shipping Company (COSCO) and products like LOGINK.
  • Potential harm to U.S. national security and economic interests, and those of its allies and partners.
  • Measures the U.S. Government could implement to ensure open access and security for strategic ports and offer alternatives to PRC investments.
• Report Elements: Within one year of enactment, a report detailing the study's findings must be submitted to Congress. This report will include:
  • Detailed lists of strategic ports operated, controlled, or owned by the PRC and the United States, along with assessments of their national security and economic relevance.
  • An assessment of vulnerabilities in U.S.-controlled and strategic ports.
  • An analysis of the PRC's methods for gaining control, including promoting products and setting industry standards.
  • A suggested strategy for securing trusted investment and ownership of strategic ports and maritime infrastructure, protecting them from PRC control, and ensuring open access. This strategy will outline existing and necessary authorities, estimated costs, and potential funding sources (private and public).
  • An assessment of national security threats posed by PRC investments to U.S. personnel and facilities near these ports.

A "strategic port" is defined as an international port or waterway deemed critical to the national security or economic prosperity of the United States by relevant government offices.