COVID-19 on maritime activities : challenges, impacts and solutions (regulatory and shipyard)

Abstract

COVID-19 is undoubtedly the most significant global crisis of the 21st century, and containment measures set by countries have greatly affected the maritime industry. The objective of this report is to investigate the challenges, impacts on global shipping activities in light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, and to evaluate the effectiveness of current solutions adopted by the maritime industry. This report was completed based on past studies about similar disruptions, news articles, journals, reports, a survey, and interviews. The analysis for this study revolves around two areas, Regulatory and Shipyard activities. The majority of the impacts identified were economic, social, and legal impacts, due to the changes in regulations that affected trade and the mobility of people. Solutions and recommendations discussed the concepts of increased digitalization, collaboration, decarbonization, and diversification, to work towards building resilience in the maritime supply chain. Therefore, this study will be beneficial to maritime players who may face a similar pandemic in the future.