The world was brought to a standstill as countries across the globe tried to contain the effects of the COVID-19 virus.
2020 was a year, we were pleased to see come to an end.
The world was brought to a standstill as countries across the globe tried to contain the effects of the COVID-19 virus and as we write this in early 2021, many are still battling to restrain the virus and return to a sense of economic and physical normality.
Supply chains were placed under extreme pressure as the pandemic started to take hold and spread quickly from mainland China towards Europe and America. Alongside this, manufacturing was halted unpredictably, there was panic buying across the globe and towards the end of the year, and there was ongoing uncertainty and increased stockpiling to deal with a potential no-deal Brexit. This all alongside the threats and subsequent implementations of further national lockdowns.
Crucially though, the maritime supply chain stepped up to play a vital role in ensuring medical supplies and PPE were able to reach destinations across the globe, and as the world shutdown and people retreated to their homes, ports & terminals remained open and ensured that cargo could move to its destination quickly and efficiently.
Alongside this resilience and support that the maritime industry has provided, there were some low points. The case of seafarers whose plight was brought front and centre of peoples’ conscientious. With some 400,000 seafarers at one point stranded outside of the port, unable to move due to restrictions and having to grapple with medical and mental health issues whilst stuck in transit, this is still a huge problem that needs to be tackled. Despite a global industry and political response, seafarers are still caught up in the pandemic and unable to reach shore and return to home due to countries limiting foreign travel.
Whether assessing from a personal, professional, economical (the list goes on) standpoint, 2020 will forever be historical 12 months.
