Opinion: Iran’s collection of transit fees could set a dangerous precedent

According to Golden Ten Data, on April 22, the head of shipping at a major commodity trading company expressed concern that Iran’s imposition of fees on passage through the Strait of Hormuz sets a dangerous precedent for the free flow of global trade. Since the outbreak of the Middle East war at the end of February, Iran has been attempting to charge transit fees for ships passing through the strait, which has triggered strong protests from international maritime regulatory bodies.

"A highly dangerous precedent is being set here, which undermines the right of innocent vessels to pass," said Larry Johnson, Global Head of Freight at Mercuria Energy Trading. "If some critical passages or waterways begin to impose tolls, or are subject to interference or threats that set a precedent for such charges, what happens next? For example, the Black Sea, the Danish Straits, the Strait of Malacca — who can say for sure? Now, the free flow of global trade no longer exists." (Golden Ten Data)