Global supply chains at risk of possible collapse?
Global supply chains are at risk of collapse unless governments worldwide restore freedom of movement to transport workers and give them priority over vaccines, a coalition of international business leaders has warned.
Workers such as seafarers, truck drivers, and airline workers have endured quarantines, travel restrictions and complex COVID-19 vaccination and testing requirements just to keep already stretched supply chains moving during the pandemic.
Many in this latter group are also tired – reaching a breaking point, according to an open letter to the heads of state attending the United Nations General Assembly.
CTV News Canada is reporting that the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and other industry groups warned of a “global transport system collapse” if governments do not restore freedom of movement to transport workers and give them priority to receive vaccines recognized by the World Health Organization.
Any failure to act was likely to exacerbate existing shortages of essential goods including electronics, food, fuel, and medical supplies ahead of Christmas, reports the Financial Times.
Globally, pandemic restrictions and business closures have disrupted traditional supply chains, leading to congestion at ports, delivery delays, and soaring freight rates on the main shipping routes between China, the US, and Europe. When a shortage of workers is added to the mix, things will only get worse, warned the letter.
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