Major maritime transport associations have called on the United Nations to oppose the introduction of taxes and service fees for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
The appeal comes as Iran and Oman appear close to finalizing an agreement that could impose charges on shipping traffic through the critical waterway.
The industry groups argue that such fees would significantly increase operational costs for global trade and undermine the principle of free navigation in international waters.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most vital energy chokepoints, with a substantial portion of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports passing through it daily.
This development follows a proposal formally presented by Oman to the United States and other Western nations, which suggested that shipping companies pay service fees for transit.
European governments are reportedly considering voluntary transit fees, according to earlier reports.