Trump Appoints Laura DiBella as Federal Maritime Commission Chair
US President Donald Trump has appointed Laura DiBella as chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), filling a key leadership position at the nation’s maritime regulator as it takes on a stronger role in global shipping oversight.
The FMC confirmed that DiBella was designated chairman on January 28. She was sworn in earlier this month as a commissioner after receiving Senate confirmation in December and will serve a term that runs through June 30, 2028.
She succeeds Louis Sola, whose term as chairman ended in June last year, leaving the leadership post vacant for more than six months.
DiBella assumes the role at a time when the FMC is expanding its enforcement efforts and regulatory authority, particularly in the liner shipping sector, following enhanced powers granted under the Ocean Shipping Reform Act. The commission has been increasing scrutiny of carrier practices as supply chain resilience and fair shipping conditions remain a political and commercial priority.
In remarks following her appointment, DiBella aligned her agenda with the Trump administration’s focus on revitalizing the US maritime industry.
She said she was honored by the president’s confidence and expressed readiness to lead the agency as it works to strengthen America’s maritime position globally.
DiBella brings extensive experience in economic development and maritime-related leadership. She previously served as Florida’s Secretary of Commerce and held top roles including president and CEO of Enterprise Florida and president of the Florida Opportunity Fund. She also made history as the first full-time executive director of the Florida Harbor Pilots Association.
The White House nominated DiBella in September alongside Robert Harvey, whose Senate confirmation is still pending. Other current FMC commissioners are Rebecca Dye, Daniel Maffei , who chaired the commission under former President Joe Biden ,and Max Vekich.
As chairman, DiBella will serve as both the chief executive and chief administrative officer of the FMC, guiding the agency through a period of growing responsibilities amid heightened attention on shipping markets, ports, and global supply chains.
