The International Maritime Organisation has issued an official Circular from the IMO Secretary General to Member States, containing preliminary recommendations to governments and relevant national authorities on the facilitation of maritime trade during the COVID-19 pandemic. The preliminary recommendations inter alia highlight the importance to keep ports open for maritime trade, to recognise seafarers and port staff as ‘key workers’ and to promote the use of digital means of communication between ship and shore. The recommendations were developed by a coalition of international maritime industry organisations coordinated by the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS). IAPH contributed to the drafting process, together with colleagues from BIMCO, CLIA, FONASBA, IACS, IMCA, IMEC, INTERCARGO, INTERFERRY, INTERMANAGER, INTERTANKO, IPTA, ITF, P&I Clubs and WSC. The recommendations also take account of input from the International Labour Organisation and the World Health Organisation.
IMO relays industry recommendations on facilitation of maritime trade
The International Maritime Organisation has issued an official Circular from the IMO Secretary General to Member States, containing preliminary recommendations to governments and relevant national authorities on the facilitation of maritime trade during the COVID-19 pandemic....