How much of global trade is carried out through the sea route? 

The correct answer is 90%.

Key Points

• According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), up to 90% of the world's goods are transported through maritime trade.
• Sea routes offer an efficient and cost-effective mode of transportation, especially for heavy and bulky cargo, like minerals, crude oil, and other commodities.
• It has a significant impact on the global economy, as the trade through sea route is essential for the bulk transport of raw materials, and the import/export of affordable food and goods.
• Efficient maritime trade relies on elements like advanced naval technology, infrastructure at ports, legal frameworks for trade, and maritime security.
• The industry is witnessing technological advancements, from larger, energy-efficient vessels to digitalization initiatives improving cargo tracking and port operations.
• However, maritime trade also has its challenges like piracy, geopolitical conflicts, environmental concerns due to pollution and the introduction of alien species through ballast water, and operational issues like cargo damage and delays present ongoing difficulties.
• The maritime industry is also an important source of jobs and contributes heavily to reducing global poverty.

Important Points

• Here are some of the world's most important maritime trade routes:
  • The Panama Canal Route: Connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean via the Panama Canal, allowing ships to bypass the lengthy Cape Horn route around South America.
  • The Suez Canal Route: Connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea through the Suez Canal, providing a shortcut from the North Atlantic to the Indian Ocean.
  • The Strait of Malacca Route: It is one of the world's busiest shipping lanes, linking the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean.
  • The Straits of Hormuz Route: A crucial passageway connecting the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea. It is strategically important because of the oil trade.
  • Trans-Pacific Route: It's the primary shipping route between Asia and the West Coast of North America.
  • Trans-Atlantic Route: It is traditionally one of the world's busiest trade routes, connecting ports in Europe and North America.
  • The South China Sea Route: One of the most strategic and heavily used trade routes, connecting Asia with Europe and Africa.