South Miami-Dade News

Today, Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez (FL-28), Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security, conducted a hearing to address the vulnerabilities facing U.S. maritime ports, particularly in light of increased threats from Communist China.

During the hearing, Chairman Gimenez highlighted the risks posed by Chinese state-owned enterprise, Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Company Limited (ZPMC), which dominates ship-to-shore crane production in U.S. ports. He emphasized the potential dangers of allowing the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) access to crucial maritime infrastructure through these cranes, stating, "By allowing the CCP access to our maritime infrastructure through these cranes, we are potentially providing our nation’s primary strategic adversary the opportunity to throttle our port activity, conduct espionage, and steal intellectual property."

Various witnesses, including Rear Admiral Wayne R. Arguin Jr. from the United States Coast Guard, Rear Admiral Derek Trinque from the United States Transportation Command (TRANSCOM), and Ms. Christa Brzozowski from the Department of Homeland Security, provided insights on the critical importance of safeguarding U.S. ports against foreign influence, especially from Communist China.

Chairman Gimenez's opening statement underscored the significance of protecting the integrity of the country's maritime infrastructure. He emphasized the need for decisive action to secure ports and invest in domestic manufacturing of port infrastructure to ensure that every component operates safely and serves the interests of the United States.

The Congressman's efforts to address these challenges include introducing the Port Crane Security and Inspection Act and leading a joint investigation with the Select Committee on the CCP to deepen understanding of the risks at hand. Concerns have been raised about third-party companies, such as ABB, that provide internal operational components for these cranes, potentially compromising U.S. national security.

In a statement, Chairman Gimenez expressed his determination to protect American maritime infrastructure, stating, "We cannot stand idly by while components of American maritime infrastructure could be weaponized against us. It is not just about commerce; it is about national security, about protecting the very fabric of our society from those who seek to unravel it."

As the hearing concluded, it became evident that securing U.S. maritime ports against threats from Communist China is a top priority for Chairman Gimenez and his colleagues in Congress. The ongoing efforts to address vulnerabilities in port security and combat foreign influence in critical supply chains remain essential in safeguarding the nation's economic vitality and security.