Criticism of the "Make American Shipbuilding Great Again" program by Chinese state media reported
In a significant step towards revitalising the U.S. shipbuilding industry, a ship commissioned by the U.S. government is currently under construction at the Hanwha Philly Shipyard in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This initiative, known as the "Make American Shipbuilding Great Again" (MASGA), is a high-profile collaboration between South Korea and the United States [1][3][5].
South Korea has pledged approximately $150 billion to modernise American shipyards, with the aim of upgrading facilities, enhancing workforce training, and adopting advanced manufacturing processes. The initiative reflects a strategic alliance to counter global competitors like China, and underscores shared security and economic interests [1][3][5].
Key recent developments include President Lee Jae Myung's historic visit to the Hanwha Philly Shipyard in August 2025, which highlighted the expansion and modernization efforts underway in Philadelphia, one of the emblematic sites of MASGA [1]. U.S. political support has also been evident, with former President Trump and other officials endorsing the deal, framing it as a return of American shipbuilding prominence [2][3].
The partnership includes private investment ventures such as Cerberus Capital Management's collaboration with HD Hyundai to explore broader maritime investments in the U.S. [2]. However, challenges remain, particularly regarding U.S. domestic laws like the Jones Act and Buy American Act, which regulate shipbuilding and maritime trade and complicate the integration of foreign-built vessels or co-production in U.S. yards [1][3][4].
There is also geopolitical sensitivity, as China has publicly criticised MASGA, warning South Korea about military risks if Korean-built ships are used in U.S. military operations, reflecting the broader regional tensions [1][3][4].
In August 2025, President Lee Jae Myung met with U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth and Andy Kim in Seoul. The meeting was also attended by National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac and other aides and officials [6]. The photographs of this meeting, as well as the construction of the ship at the Hanwha Philly Shipyard, were taken on July 16 and August 18 respectively and were published by the Joongang Ilbo and the Presidential Office [4][7].
The MASGA initiative was displayed during trade talks with the United States on Aug. 3 [5]. In a unique promotional move, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy has designed a red baseball cap to promote the MASGA initiative [8].
As MASGA progresses with significant investments and political will, its full realization depends on navigating regulatory hurdles and managing geopolitical dynamics involving China [1][3][4][5].
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