Global coalition urges governments to keep shipping lanes open, safe

The more than 100 signatories in their open letter representing a range of critical industries, including agricultural products, retail, energy, clothing and footwear, urged governments to join, support or align with the mission to support safe and secure maritime commerce in the Red Sea and across the globe.

The letter was released by the IAF and AAFA recently.

IAF is the global federation for apparel manufacturers, brands owned by small and medium enterprises, their associations, and the supporting industry.

"It is imperative that governments unite behind a zero-tolerance approach to deter attacks on commercial vessels and seafarers in the Red Sea, and anywhere in the world. The prosperity of millions of people who are employed in our industries and in the global maritime industry depends on safe and secure freedom of navigation," AAFA president and chief executive officer Steve Lamar said in a release.

"These attacks have already caused upwards of $80 billion in cargo to be diverted around the Cape of Good Hope….This alternative route becomes even more challenging during the Southern Hemisphere winter months ... cooperation among nations is essential to signal the importance of free passage in international waters," said IAF secretary general Matthijs Crietee.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)