Shipping Nations Sound Alarm Over Threats to Freedom of Navigation
The Consultative Shipping Group, representing 18 major shipping nations, warned that geopolitical tensions, unilateral trade measures and shadow fleet expansion threaten the rules-based maritime system. The group cited recent disruptions including the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, Panama Canal drought restrictions and Middle East conflict, and called for stronger international cooperation and consistent enforcement of existing rules. It pointed to the Strait of Hormuz disruption as an example of the consequences of fragmented shipping supply chains.
Why it matters: This matters for freedom of navigation, as the CSG warns that geopolitical fragmentation and shadow fleet expansion undermine the rules-based maritime system.