In a joint statement issued on Friday, April 17, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the World Customs Organization (WCO) asked that sea trade should continue to flow to ensure the continued provision of essential goods, amid the pandemic.
The two Organization highlighted the importance of trade continuity of vital goods, such as medical supplies, during the unprecedented global situation arising from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Both Organizations focused on the importance of communication, coordination and cooperation at national and local levels, as well, asking for team efforts between ships, port facilities, customs administrations and other competent authorities. Customs and port administrations are urged to work together to resolve disruptions to the global supply chain, to support the health and well-being of all people.
IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim and WCO Secretary General Dr. Kunio Mikuriya strongly urged customs administrations and port state authorities, together with all other concerned agencies, to establish a coordinated and proactive approach to maintaining the integrity of the global supply chain so that the flow of vital goods by sea is not unnecessarily disrupted.
The joint statement highlights that global restrictions have led to many ports closed and ships being denied to enter, something that may interrupt aid and technical support, and have negative social and economic effects on the countries concerned.
It is critical that customs administrations and port state authorities continue to facilitate the cross-border movement of vital medical supplies and equipment, critical agricultural products, and other goods, to help minimize the overall impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on economies and societies,
… the joint statement said.
