NZ joins global COVID-19 port initiative

NEW ZEALAND HAS JOINED AN INTERNATIONAL PORT authorities’ global initiative for safe and efficient movement of goods and shipping during the COVID-19 crisis.

Worldwide, 56 port authorities have agreed to work together, facilitating maritime trade as the countries involved fight COVID-19.

The independent Chair of NZ port companies’ CEOs’ group, Charles Finny, signed the international declaration on behalf of our ports.

NZ’s maritime industry regulator, Maritime NZ, says it welcomes the declaration, which was initiated by Singapore and is being implemented by the international Port Authorities’ Roundtable.

The 56 port authorities who have signed the international declaration have committed to:

• safely keeping global supply chains and trade going and allowing merchant ships to load and unload;

• coordinating so they can quickly share information about, and experiences of, combating COVID-19;

• continuing to adopt best practices for shore personnel and ship crew, safe handling of cargoes and measures taken in dealing with COVID-19 cases.

“Ports, shipping and international trade are crucial to NZ’s prosperity,” says Mr Finny.

“Ships transport about 99% of our country’s goods to and from our markets. That’s how we move milk powder, logs and other exports, and it is how we import medical equipment and consumer goods, and stock many of the shelves in our stores. We are part of global markets where 80% of the world’s goods are transported via sea lanes.”

The Director of Maritime NZ, Keith Manch, says the maritime sector plays a crucial role in keeping trade flows open in the global fight against COVID-19: “Safe and efficient ports, with good international links, are vital for our country’s supply chain,” he says.

NZL