Global supply chains are “beginning to buckle” as two years’ worth of strain take a hit

There are major concerns today for supply chains right around the world, with seafarers, truck drivers and airline workers subject to ongoing pandemic-related restrictions

Covid-19 vaccination and testing requirements have pushed many industries to breaking point, putting further strain on a sector that is already struggling to cope.

This all comes as an open letter was delivered to the United Nations General Assembly warning of a “global transport system collapse” if governments don’t lift their games.

Organised by the International Chamber of Shipping, the letter wants freedom of movement restored for transport workers, as well as priority to receive Covid-19 vaccines.

“Global supply chains are beginning to buckle as two years’ worth of strain on transport workers take their toll,” the groups wrote. The letter has also been signed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the International Road Transport Union (IRU) and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF). Together they represent 65 million transport workers globally,” the letter wrote

“All transport sectors are also seeing a shortage of workers, and expect more to leave as a result of the poor treatment millions have faced during the pandemic, putting the supply chain under greater threat,” it added.