Key facts
- US proposes $200,000 fee on Spanish ships.
- Olive oil, cosmetics, oils, and ceramics imports may be capped.
- Spain denied port access to three US vessels in 2024.
- US commission cited unfavorable shipping conditions created by Spain.
The US Federal Maritime Commission on Wednesday proposed a $200,000 fee on Spanish-flagged ships calling at US ports and restricting imports of key Spanish goods, including olive oil. The commission determined that Spain created unfavorable shipping conditions for US vessels by denying access to three ships in 2024. Spanish officials stated these vessels were carrying cargo related to Israel's war in Gaza. The proposed measures, which also cover cosmetics, oils, and ceramics, are subject to a 60-day public comment period. The investigation was initiated under former US President Joe Biden, but the proposals represent the first concrete trade measure plan since President Donald Trump threatened trade ties with Spain last year.