OUR OCEAN, OUR OBLIGATION, OUR OPPORTUNITY: THE FREIGHT FORWARDER'S ROLE IN SAFEGUARDING OUR SEAS

‘Blue Heart’ of the Planet

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The ocean, a vast expanse engulfing two-thirds of our planet. It supports enormous biodiversity, regulates climate, provides food, livelihoods, and is deeply interwoven with human society. From generating oxygen to absorbing a large share of carbon dioxide and providing jobs in multiple sectors, the vitality of our oceans is immense.

For freight forwarders, shipping lines, ports, and supply-chain operators, the ocean is not just a backdrop, but rather a highway for most international trade. The maritime shipping sector carried more than 80% of global trade. The ocean economy, that is, the mix of goods and services tied to the ocean, including shipping, fisheries, marine energy, tourism, etc., in 2023 contributed over $2.2 trillion in trade in goods & services, amounting to about 7% of world trade.

These figures underscore a crucial fact: global trade, supply chains, and economic development are profoundly reliant on the health, stability, and sustainability of the seas.

World Maritime Day 2025

On the 25th of September each year, the world gathers to observe World Maritime Day. The theme chosen by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) this year is "Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity". It highlights three pillars: