Shipping groups urge UN to block tolls in Strait of Hormuz, citing global economic risk

Eight major shipping associations have asked the United Nations to oppose any tolls on vessels passing the Strait of Hormuz, warning that such fees would breach international norms and hurt the world economy.

Eight of the world’s largest shipping associations have sent a letter to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez urging the United Nations to oppose any tolls on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The groups argue that imposing such fees would contravene established international law, create a precedent that could endanger the legal regime for international straits, and drive up energy prices, inflation and broader economic uncertainty, ultimately harming livelihoods worldwide.

Signatories include the Asian Shipowners Association, Baltic and International Maritime Council, Cruise Lines International Association, European Shipowners Association, International Chamber of Shipping, International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners, International Association of Independent Tanker Owners and the World Shipping Council. IMO officials have previously warned that tolls would violate international law, and analysts say the move would hit Asian markets hardest, raising diesel, fertilizer and plastic costs.

Iran instituted a de-facto “toll booth” after the war began and has used its control of the waterway as leverage, with dozens of attacks recorded and thousands of seafarers still stranded. Experts note that despite UN concern, the organization has limited leverage over Iran, Oman and the United States in any settlement.