Ryan Lackey, a prominent figure in the technology and crypto-related insurance sectors now based in Puerto Rico, has publicly criticized the current statistical data gathering methods for trade flows to the island, asserting that these practices contribute to inflated shipping costs. In a recent social media post, Lackey stated his intention to address this issue over the next three years to benefit the residents of Puerto Rico.
Lackey, known for his work in computer security and as a co-founder of HavenCo, highlighted the practical impact of these regulations on consumers and businesses. He tweeted, > "If there is one small thing I can do to help people in Puerto Rico during the next 3 years, it will be ending the retarded census statistical data gathering in trade flows to PR which is why you can't ship 'domestic' FedEx/UPS/DHL to PR and thus get raped by vendors."
Despite being a U.S. territory and part of the U.S. Customs territory, Puerto Rico is not classified as part of the U.S. mainland for shipping purposes by many major carriers. This distinction often subjects shipments to requirements typically associated with international deliveries, such as mandatory commercial invoices and potential excise taxes, even for what are technically domestic routes. These additional complexities and costs are frequently passed on to consumers.
The U.S. Census Bureau regularly collects and publishes data on trade between the United States and Puerto Rico through series like FT895, detailing the quantity and value of commodities shipped. While this data collection provides economic insights, Lackey's critique suggests that the underlying classification or the use of this data inadvertently perpetuates the island's unique and often more expensive shipping environment. The Jones Act, which mandates that goods shipped between U.S. ports must be carried on U.S.-flagged vessels, further contributes to higher freight costs for Puerto Rico.
Lackey's focus on reforming data gathering points to a perceived systemic issue that he believes directly impacts the ability to ship goods to Puerto Rico as if it were a U.S. state, thereby reducing the financial burden on residents. His statement underscores a broader concern among some in Puerto Rico regarding the economic disadvantages stemming from its unique territorial status and the associated regulatory frameworks.