What is the significance of cabotage in shipping?

Cabotage plays a crucial role in shaping the shipping industry's operational landscape, especially within the context of national economies. The significance of cabotage lies in its function to restrict the transport of goods between domestic ports to vessels that are built and registered in the country where the transportation occurs. This regulation aims to protect the local shipping industry, ensuring that domestic shipowners have the opportunity to engage in inter-coastal trade without facing competition from foreign vessels. By enforcing cabotage laws, a country promotes the development of its own maritime capabilities and workforce, ultimately contributing to national economic interests.

This policy also influences maritime infrastructure investment and can have implications for national security, as maintaining a robust domestic shipping fleet is often seen as vital. It may financially benefit citizens by keeping shipping jobs and economic activity within the country, thus supporting local maritime businesses.