UNCTAD warns that sea-route disruption reaches far beyond ports

In a Security Council Arria-formula meeting statement, UNCTAD noted that more than 80% of world merchandise trade by volume travels by sea. Disruption at a chokepoint can spread into transport costs, energy and food prices.

Longer alternative routes can tie up ship capacity and add fuel use, while congestion compounds delays. UNCTAD emphasised contingency planning and stronger ports and transit corridors, particularly for vulnerable economies.