The Study Note is addressing the principles governing international maritime transport and trade. This is about the world merchant fleet, its structure and composition. We continue to analyse the international trade routes involving major commodities. Taking through the logistics and procedures of customs services in international Shipping, the role of territorial waters, EEZ and effects on littoral states and routing of shipping. Further, the role of the United Nations in regulating the oceans is captured without getting into the details at this level.