特朗普“解禁”《琼斯法案》，60天降油价

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the temporary exemption of the Jones Act by the Trump administration to alleviate rising energy prices due to the escalating conflict between the U.S. and Iran, allowing foreign-flagged vessels to transport essential commodities within U.S. ports for 60 days [1][3][7]. Group 1: Impact of the Jones Act Exemption - The exemption will enable foreign-flagged ships to transport oil, gas, fertilizers, and coal between U.S. ports, which is expected to ease transportation costs [1][3]. - The Jones Act, established in 1920, mandates that goods transported between U.S. ports must be carried by U.S.-built, U.S.-registered, and U.S.-crewed vessels, aimed at protecting the domestic shipping industry [7]. - According to Daleep Singh, Chief Global Economist at PGIM, there are fewer than 100 vessels compliant with the Jones Act, indicating that the exemption will allow more international tankers to transport fuel within the U.S. [7]. Group 2: Market Reactions and Oil Prices - The ongoing conflict has led to a surge in international oil prices, with Brent crude futures rising above $109 per barrel, approaching the $110 mark [5]. - Despite the exemption, analysts suggest that the impact may be limited due to a mismatch in refinery capabilities, as most U.S. refineries are designed to process Middle Eastern crude oil, while the U.S. primarily produces lighter shale oil [7][8]. Group 3: Concerns from Maritime Labor Groups - A coalition of nine U.S. maritime labor groups expressed concerns over the suspension of the Jones Act, arguing that it undermines national security and military readiness by relying on foreign operators [9][10]. - They assert that the exemption will not significantly lower gasoline prices, as evidence shows that global crude costs are the primary drivers of gasoline prices, with domestic transportation costs being negligible [10][11].