As a challenging year draws to a close, the world is still feeling the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, its impact on people’s lives and the global economy.
Its arrival caught everyone unprepared. Despite that, and the unimaginable disruptions it caused in ports and to crew changes, the shipping industry largely continued to operate around the world, facilitating the movement of world trade and highlighting the importance of this industry.
After a year like no other, TradeWinds asked 40 shipping industry stakeholders what they see for 2021 after a year beset by the coronavirus, and how the pandemic will shape shipping's future.
Whilst the outbreak of the pandemic was unprecedented and disruptive, it also worked as a catalyst. It expedited the implementation of modern communication platforms, facilitating remote statutory surveys and inspections, thus enabling the industry to continue operating the vessels in a safe manner. To a large extent, working from home became the norm for onshore personnel due to quarantine restrictions imposed by governments.
This led us to realise how important physical presence was when conducting some aspects of the business, but also how technological tools could be used to make the business more efficient.
We are tremendously proud of our seafarers. They remain at the forefront of this global pandemic, continuing to serve on board our vessels tirelessly and professionally, in line with our highest standards for health, safety and quality, ensuring that global trade remains uninterrupted.
It is important for the entire industry, not just owners and managers, to recognise that our seafarers are key workers, whose well-being and mental health are vital for the continuous trade of our vessels.
All of us should thank each and every one of our seafarers and their families for their resilience and patience during this exceptional period.
As we are on the doorstep of 2021, scientists are hopeful that the pandemic will soon be behind us, thus enabling world economies to return to healthier levels.
With regards to dry bulk shipping, the minimal investments in newbuilding tonnage and the uncertainty surrounding new fuel technologies renders the forthcoming years challenging, but also interesting. We are entering a transformational time for the industry and must be alert and receptive to the new opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
