ABSTRACT
The United States has a distinct and vital interest in successfully participating in world trade. The UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Liner Code is a framework treaty rather than a detailed and definitive set of rules. There are many provisions in the Code which allow for recognition of regional practice and the specific needs of various trades. The United States is a very important trading state and as such it continues to have the potential for influence in international liner shipping. Attention to the UNCTAD Liner Code has to too great a degree focused upon the provisions on cargo allocation. Should the United States decide to become party to the Liner Code it must approach the Code with an appropriate attitude as well as suitable reservations and understandings. By mid-October 1983 the Liner Code will be in force and will be a fact of life.
