As nations that rely heavily on ocean transport for international trade, the United States and Japan depend on their maritime industries to serve as vital foundations for economic activity. In recognition of the importance of maritime industrial bases in ensuring economic security amid rising geopolitical tensions, both countries have positioned the strengthening of this infrastructure as a key policy priority and are accelerating related initiatives.

At present, the United States and Japan face a common challenge: the decline in shipbuilding capacity. Japan has designated shipbuilding as one of the strategic sectors under its Japan Growth Strategy and is promoting the expansion of shipbuilding capacity based on its Shipbuilding Industry Revitalization Roadmap. The United States is also working to rebuild and strengthen its shipbuilding capacity based on the Maritime Action Plan.

 

The two countries are advancing various forms of cooperation, including the development of new technologies, based on the Memorandum of Cooperation on Shipbuilding concluded in October 2025. In order to secure stable ocean transport, a robust international shipping industry is indispensable, and shipping and shipbuilding industries, as two complementary pillars, should be promoted on the same token. Based on this recognition, Japan is working to strengthen the international competitiveness of its ocean shipping industry, enhance maritime safety, and reinforce its maritime industrial base including shipbuilding. At the same time, the United States is exploring ways to strengthen its maritime industrial base through the expansion of the U.S.-flag merchant fleet.

 

This symposium will bring together policymakers and industry leaders from both countries to review each initiative, its policy background, and the progress of bilateral cooperation aimed at strategically strengthening their maritime industrial bases. Participants will also discuss key challenges for U.S.-Japan public-private partnerships and future policy directions.