- AAPA issued a statement in which highlighted the impacts that the virus has upon the ports, the shipping industry, the logistics, and the economy.
- Supply chain disruption and the overall economic impact of this type of crisis, can easily run into the tens of billions of dollars, because of the virus outbreak.
- AAPA keeps its US members ports daily connected with federal agencies, while provides its recommendations and collaborates with their Port Captain for local notices and updates.
The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) issued a statement that recognizes the threat to both human health and world economic stability related to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, reports Safety4sea.
Cargo volumes taking a major hit
AAPA informed that the coronavirus will impact the cargo volumes at several US ports during the first quarter of 2020, as they may be down by 20% or more in comparison to the previous year.
At the same time supply chain disruption and the overall economic impact of this type of crisis, can easily run into the tens of billions of dollars.
“While we haven’t yet heard specifics about the impacts to the cruise travel industry, we echo what the Cruise Lines International Association is saying, which is that while the relative impact to global cruise operations isn’t extensive at this time, we recognize that the impact on even just one person is significant,” said Chris Connor, President and CEO of the American Association of Port Authorities.
Safety measures on spotlight
Although, the impacts upon human health is the first priority for the AAPA and the US ports, as they keep following instructions, safety measures and protocols from appropriate federal agencies in order to immediately respond to coronavirus cases.
“The most important things are to ensure that as few people as possible become infected, that those who have been infected are well treated and receive quality care, and that we mourn for those whose lives have been tragically cut short by this pathogen crisis,” President and CEO, Chris Connor continued.
Port recommendations
In light of the coronavirus situation, AAPA keeps its US members ports daily connected with these federal agencies, while provides its recommendations and collaborates with their specific Captain of the Port for local notices and updates.
“Since ports are a nation’s first line of defense against threats ranging from terrorism to pathogens, they take their role seriously about protecting the safety and well-being of their communities,” Mr. Chris Connor concluded.
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Source: Safety4sea
