What is the primary function of the maritime domain in the context of global trade?

The primary function of the maritime domain in the context of global trade is that it acts as a transit route for goods. The vast majority of international trade by volume is conducted via sea, utilizing shipping routes that connect various regions of the world. These maritime routes allow for the efficient transport of bulk cargo, raw materials, and finished products across vast distances, facilitating economic activity on a global scale.

The maritime domain plays a critical role in linking producers and consumers, enabling trade through oversized cargo vessels and containers. Its significance is underscored by the shipping industry's ability to handle immense quantities of goods at a lower cost compared to other transportation methods, such as air transport. Thus, this transit function is essential for maintaining the flow of trade and the overall health of the global economy.