US President Joe Biden has stirred controversy in the global port industry with his decision to invest $20 billion in local crane production and expand American authority to investigate cybersecurity issues in port infrastructures. Despite reports indicating that the US discovered modems used for communication and data collection on cranes made by a leading Chinese manufacturer, experts and decision makers in Israel have remained largely unconcerned.
The Chinese company ZPMC, based in Shanghai, dominates over 70% of the world market for port cranes, used for loading and unloading containers. The company denied any wrongdoing, stating that they adhere to relevant laws and regulations. However, an investigation found unauthorized communication devices on ZPMC cranes in the US, raising concerns about potential espionage and disruptions in supply chains.
In response to these revelations, President Biden has tasked the US Coast Guard with addressing cybersecurity in ports and announced a $20 billion investment in American-made infrastructure for sea ports. Despite these efforts, the prevalence of ZPMC cranes worldwide poses a significant challenge due to their lower cost and widespread use.
Israel has expressed concerns about the security implications of Chinese-built cranes in ports. While some ports have taken measures to mitigate potential risks, including replacing electronic systems and installing security sensors, skepticism remains about Chinese involvement in critical infrastructure. Despite reassurances from experts, the issue of cybersecurity in ports remains a topic of debate and scrutiny.