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Trafigura, Phillips 66 Lead Domestic Jones Act Waiver Push

Trafigura Group and Phillips 66 are the leading recipients of U.S. government waivers that allow foreign-flagged tankers to transport petroleum products and other cargo between American ports.

These exemptions represent a departure from Jones Act restrictions, which traditionally require U.S.-flagged vessels for domestic maritime trade. The waivers let both companies use international shipping capacity for domestic routes.

Energy shippers are pursuing these exemptions to gain operational flexibility amid supply chain challenges. U.S. officials grant the waivers on a case-by-case basis, suggesting continued use of foreign-flagged tonnage for select domestic movements.

The trend reflects pressure on traditional maritime regulations as major traders seek cost efficiency and capacity solutions.