China overtakes the US in shipbuilding, raising national security alarm

Washington, April 1, 2025 –

The global naval industry has entered a new level of imbalance. In 2024 alone, a single Chinese shipyard produced more commercial ships than all the shipyards in the United States combined since the end of World War II. This impressive figure has raised serious concerns among military strategists and economists in the US, who see this as not only an industrial milestone, but also a direct threat to national security.

“We are facing an industrial abyss. China’s dominance in the naval sector highlights our vulnerability as a nation in times of conflict,” said a senior defense analyst who spoke on condition of anonymity. This assessment is shared by several experts who warn of the loss of the American strategic capacity to produce vessels on a large scale — something vital for military logistics, international trade and emergency response.

Behind the scenes in Congress, lawmakers from both parties are already articulating projects that aim to reactivate the American industrial base, with a special focus on the defense industry and maritime infrastructure. The current scenario is seen as a sign of urgency, especially given the growth of the Chinese fleet in the South China Sea and the increase in tension around Taiwan.

“It’s not just about economic competitiveness. Naval industrial supremacy is a key piece in the global geopolitical chessboard,” stressed Professor David L. Schuster of Georgetown University.

The report that revealed the record number of ships manufactured also points out that China invested heavily in automation, subsidies and specialized technical labor to achieve such production levels. Meanwhile, American shipyards face rising material prices, a shortage of skilled workers and a bureaucracy that stifles innovation.

If nothing changes, experts warn, the US risks losing not only its economic leadership, but also its ability to protect its interests on the international stage.