In spite of the recent novel Coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak, which has brought most of the world’s supply chain networks to a halt, the European Sea Ports Organisation (Espo) has called on the continent’s ports to remain open to ensure the supply of essential goods can continue.
The port management agency said yesterday that although it was important to restrict the movement of people, it was just as important to ensure that goods were still free to move across borders.
“All necessary measures should be taken to keep trade moving to ensure that essential goods and materials can be delivered to citizens throughout the EU. The closing of borders should not cut off the flow of goods,” it said.
Espo chairman Eamonn O’Reilly said European ports had been steadfast in the fight against the spread of Covid-19, but he also noted that it was critical for ports to remain open in order to transport life-saving medicines, food and equipment.
“These are extraordinary and challenging times for everybody and it is essential that the supply chains which allow essential goods and materials to move throughout Europe continue unhindered to the greatest possible extent,” he said.
Espo secretary general Isabelle Ryckbost shared similar sentiments, pointing out that one third of intra-community trade was facilitated through the European ports.
“In times of emergency, ports have an essential role in providing citizens, health services and businesses with the goods and materials they need. Europe’s ports take this public responsibility very seriously. They count on the EU and member states to give them the support needed to play this role,” said Ryckbost.
The port’s association said they had contingency plans in place to ensure that the flow of goods continued in case the situation worsened. – Bjorn Vorster
