Ocean transportation is an integral component in agricultural export marketing. The Shipping Act of 1984 regulates ocean liner common carriers, and directly affects most high-value product importers and exporters. Based on the results of industry opinion surveys, agricultural shippers favor ocean liner regulation that promotes increased carrier competition, freight contracting, rate-making flexibility, and dissemination of market information. Many shippers perceive that the elimination of ocean liner conferences would reduce long-term rate levels. The survey results indicate that most shippers want the unrestricted ability to negotiate freight contracts with individual carriers.