INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS PROGRAM

The Commission has the statutory authority to take actions to correct or counterbalance adverse, unfair or unfavorable foreign practices which affect U.S. shipping or U.S. carriers in international oceanborne commerce. The General Counsel monitors and investigates restrictive foreign practices, and makes recommendations for appropriate Commission action under the Foreign Shipping Practices Act of 1988, Section 19 of the Merchant Marine Act, 1920, and the Shipping Act of 1984.

In addition, the General Counsel maintains a list of ocean common carriers that are owned or controlled by the foreign governments. These °controlled carriers" are subject to rate review standards to ensure that they do not unjustly take advantage of their government-supported position in the marketplace.

The General Counsel also provides technical and policy assistance to other government agencies engaged in bilateral and multilateral international negotiations or discussions on shipping matters.

Benjamin K. Trogdon serves as the Chair of the Commission' s Permanent Task Force on International Affairs, an inter-office working group established to develop prompt and effective responses to restrictive foreign shipping practices.  Inquiries regarding the International Affairs Program may be directed to:

Benjamin K. Trogdon
Attorney-Advisor

Tel:  (202) 523-5740
Fax:  (202) 523-5738
Address: 800 North Capitol Street, NW
Washington, D.C.  20573

E-mail: generalcounsel@fmc.gov