The global container freight industry needs greater attention today. Nations including South Korea and the United States have a responsibility to maintain and enhance infrastructure for the flow of commerce. Preserving habitats and stewardship of nature’s critical maritime resources are also at stake. The status quo is one of multiplicity in possible systems, lack of integration, and too much concentration, all at the same time.
The recent accident in Baltimore with the container ship Dali again brings to the attention of the masses and specialists alike the various challenges and opportunities faced. With a single freight container’s payload holding the potential to upset global supply chains, there is ample salience to do something about the world’s growing interdependence. Threats to global shipping also require attention. It’s much more than about “piracy” and the Houthis’ moment.
Reading a wide variety of commentary about the Dali documents several of the challenges: the growing use of freight container ships and barges clogs ports designed for much less traffic. Bridge and sea route lanes and other infrastructures also were designed and built decades ago and require major investments for the scale and extent of traffic. The lack of competition in many agreements among freight/shipping companies discourages efficiency and........