Eighteen major maritime nations have warned that the rules governing global shipping are coming under serious pressure as wars, geopolitical tensions and the growth of shadow fleets increasingly disrupt international trade.
The warning was issued in a rare joint statement by maritime authorities representing major shipping nations. The countries said the established rules that have traditionally supported freedom of navigation and the movement of commercial vessels are being weakened by conflicts and growing challenges at sea.
The maritime powers highlighted the increasing use of so-called shadow fleets — vessels operating with opaque ownership, registration or insurance arrangements — as one of the developments making it more difficult to enforce international maritime rules.
The warning comes at a particularly difficult time for the global shipping industry. Several important shipping routes are being affected by armed conflicts and security threats, forcing vessels to change routes, increasing sailing times and raising transportation costs.
The situation around the Strait of Hormuz has also added to concerns about the stability of global maritime trade. The strategic waterway is a major route for energy shipments, meaning prolonged disruption could affect fuel supplies and prices around the world.
The maritime authorities said maintaining a rules-based maritime system is essential because disruptions at sea can quickly spread into wider supply chains, energy markets and the global economy.
The statement therefore represents a strong call for greater international cooperation to protect commercial shipping and ensure that vessels can continue to operate safely and predictably.
Why it matters:
If maritime rules continue to weaken, shipping companies could face higher insurance costs, longer routes, security risks and further disruption to global trade.
