We're gonna need a bigger boat-building industry

This NPR podcast episode from Planet Money's "The Indicator" discusses the decline of the U.S. shipbuilding industry and the implications for national security and the economy. The episode explores the historical context, including the Jones Act's impact on costs and the lack of investment in the industry following the Cold War. It examines the current imbalance with China's dominance in shipbuilding and the proposed "Ships for America Act," which aims to revive the U.S. maritime industry through incentives and workforce development. However, concerns are raised about the act's potential negative consequences, such as restrictions on foreign competition and the impact on cargo transportation. The episode highlights the complex interplay between commercial and military shipbuilding, the risks of relying on China for shipping, and the challenges of rebuilding a robust domestic shipbuilding industry.