- ICS will join the World Trade Organization (WTO) Ministerial Conference (MC12) in Geneva this week.
- WTO Conference takes place against the backdrop of ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
- WTO Director General, Okonjo-Iweala, proposed a formal Dialogue between the WTO and the maritime transport sector.
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), alongside other leading business organizations, is joining WTO Ministers from across the world in Geneva this week, aiming to deliver concrete results at the organization’s upcoming 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12), according to an article published in International Chamber of Shipping.
Critical issues in view
This Dialogue will serve as an opportunity for senior government officials and industry to exchange views on critical issues and challenges confronting the Multilateral Trading System, in the context of recent developments impacting the global economy, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, global energy crises and recovery from COVID-19.
Secretary General’s comment
“We were very encouraged and fully supported Dr Okonjo-Iweala’s message to the shipping industry proposing a formal Dialogue between the WTO and the maritime transport sector. There have been a number of developments which have further emphasized the need for WTO and industry collaboration this past year. ICS and the WTO, as the facilitators of free trade throughout the world, are united on many issues but none more so than our shared values and principles of open and unimpeded access to international markets.“
New shipping policies
The new Shipping Policy Principles strengthen the shipping industry’s commitment to the maintenance of a rules-based global trading system and a global regulatory framework which embraces open markets and fair competition and strict adherence to internationally adopted standards.
ICS outlines ten ‘Policy Priorities’ and complementary ‘Calls to Action’ by governments in critical policy areas, to help support efficiency of the global maritime transport system which carries about 90% of world trade, the majority which now serves the economies of developing countries.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe
Source: International Chamber of Shipping
