COPENHAGEN (Reuters) - Danish shipping giant Maersk has drawn attention with its cautious approach to business operations, announcing the termination of cargo transport contracts with up to 97 companies linked to Israeli settlements. The decision follows an extensive review of West Bank-related shipping activities.
In a written statement, the company revealed it is strengthening its screening procedures to ensure compliance with international human rights standards. The new process incorporates a United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) database tracking businesses involved in Israeli settlement activities, enhancing both compliance and transparency.
While Maersk confirmed discontinuing relationships with some existing clients, the exact number of affected companies remains unspecified. The shipping firm emphasized that certain cargo shipments were identified as failing to meet its ethical benchmarks, prompting necessary screening measures to improve the moral compliance of its transport operations.
The move has drawn particular scrutiny as Maersk continues to operate its U.S. subsidiary, Maersk Line Limited, which maintains defense-related shipping contracts including transport services connected to F-35 fighter jet production. This apparent contradiction has raised questions about the company's stance, highlighting the complex balance between commercial operations and ethical responsibilities in global logistics.
Industry analysts note that Maersk's decision reflects growing pressure on multinational corporations to align their business practices with human rights frameworks, particularly in geopolitically sensitive regions. The shipping company's actions may set a precedent for other logistics firms reviewing their own operations in contested territories.
Maersk declined to comment on whether the policy shift would affect its overall business volume in Israel, where it remains one of the largest container shipping operators. The company maintains regular shipping routes to major Israeli ports outside disputed territories.