Estonia Proposes Shipping Fees for Baltic Sea Cable Protection

Estonia's Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur has proposed that shipping firms may need to pay fees to navigate the Baltic Sea in response to recent incidents of suspected sabotage involving undersea cables. This potential tax aims to fund protective measures, such as increased NATO patrols, installation of sensors, and the construction of protective casings around vital infrastructure. Pevkur likened the proposed fee to an airport landing fee, suggesting it would serve as an 'insurance fee' against damage to the cables. The Baltic Sea, which sees heavy maritime traffic with around 4,000 ships daily, is particularly vulnerable, and the recent incidents have raised concerns about vessels linked to Russia's 'shadow fleet.' Ultimately, consumers may bear the financial burden of these protective measures through higher taxes or utility costs. Various options are still under consideration as countries work towards a common solution.