International Journal of Managing Value and Supply Chains (IJMVSC) Vol.15, No.1, March 2024 DOI:10.5121/ijmvsc.2024.15105 47 VALUE AND SUPPLY CHAINS IN INTERNATIONAL TRADE. PUERTO RICO AMIDST DISASTERS, CAPTURES AND LEAKAGES Maribel Aponte-Garcia Graduate School of Business Administration and Social Science Research Center, University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico ABSTRACT This research introduces the Chain-Business-Trade mapping method, integrating import-export and Bill of Lading data for supply chain analysis. Two quantitative studies, employing Proof of Concept and Pilot Project approaches, focused on identifying alternative sources for critical imports during disasters and assessing Puerto Rico's alignment with America’s Supply Chains priorities. Qualitative methods contextualized findings, addressing international trade constraints and value leakages caused by the US Jones Act. During import disruptions, the Greater Caribbean emerged as a vital alternative network for Puerto Rico, with Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Panama, and the US Virgin Islands playing crucial roles. Puerto Rico's prominence in lithium supply chains (exporting 90% of pacemakers) and pharmaceuticals, aligned with America’s Supply Chains priorities, highlights the impact of international trade constraints on supply chains. The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive mapping and adaptive strategies, noting challenges due to the absence of dedicated institutions for informed decision- making. KEYWORDS supply chains; value chains; Puerto Rico; Cabotage Laws; America’s Supply Chains. 1. INTRODUCTION This article has a threefold objective. First, it presents the chain mapping method developed by the author. Second, it summarizes preliminary findings from two studies. These studies applied the method and received funding from the Business Resilience and Innovation Program. This program is part of the Puerto Rico Science, Technology, and Research Trust. Third, it examines these findings in a specific context. The context is international trade affected by value leakages. It also considers the impact of the US Cabotage Laws. These laws are Section 27 of the 1920 Merchant Marine Act (46 USC. 883), also known as the Jones Act. The Jones Act imposes certain requirements on maritime transportation. These requirements apply to shipping between US state ports and territories. This study addresses challenges in Puerto Rico's international trade, particularly regarding "resilient" value and supply chains. The paper assesses imports, emphasizing limitations due to the colonial status, and scrutinizes capture and value leakages in the export process. The theoretical foundations center on value and supply chain mapping, and value capture. A value chain involves a sequence from raw material acquisition to final product delivery, while the supply chain encompasses activities, shipping logistics, multimodal transport, distribution, and international sales. Value capture describes how specific stakeholders gain or lose the value of a created and distributed good or service.