UN – Review of Maritime Transport 2024

The UNCTAD’s 2024 report reviews global maritime trade, emphasizing the impact of disrupted trade routes and climate risks on maritime chokepoints. The report discusses how critical routes like the Suez and Panama Canals face significant strain due to climate change and geopolitical conflicts, driving up shipping costs and lengthening travel distances. With over 80% of global trade reliant on maritime transport, UNCTAD highlights the pressing need for decarbonization, enhanced infrastructure, and resilience-building. Small island and developing nations, which depend heavily on maritime trade, are especially vulnerable to cost increases and disruptions. The report suggests measures for international cooperation to stabilize trade routes and mitigate the impact of climate and political risks on global supply chains.