To support these efforts, the administration is preparing an executive order that would impose fees on ships linked to China when they enter U.S. ports, with the intention of encouraging U.S. allies to adopt similar measures. CMA CGM, the world’s third-largest container shipping line, is part of a vessel-sharing alliance that includes China’s COSCO. The company warned that U.S. port fees on China-built ships would significantly affect all shipping firms.

During a meeting in the Oval Office, CMA CGM CEO Rodolphe Saade confirmed the $20 billion investment, which is expected to create approximately 10,000 jobs. Over the next four years, the investment will focus on expanding container ports and establishing an air cargo hub in Chicago, supported by five new Boeing 777 freighters operated by American pilots.

Saade, a French-Lebanese billionaire, also indicated that CMA CGM is considering supporting the construction of container ships, with plans to announce further details in the coming weeks. Additionally, the company aims to increase the number of its vessels registered under the U.S. flag from 10 to 30, as part of the administration’s push to bolster the U.S. flag registry.

CMA CGM currently operates port terminals in New York and Los Angeles and is the largest cargo carrier for U.S. retail giant Walmart. The investment and initiatives reflect a broader strategy to strengthen the U.S. shipping industry while addressing concerns about foreign dependency in maritime logistics.