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CLIA estimates $25bn loss to US economy during cruise suspension

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Cruise Lines International Association estimated the suspension of US cruise operations from mid-March until today has resulted in a loss of more than $25bn in economic activity and over 164,000 American jobs.

The association said each day without cruise operations in the US results in nearly 1,000 American jobs lost.

Sailings canceled through year's end

The data were part of a CLIA announcement that its member lines would maintain their ongoing suspension of cruise operations stateside through year's end. This came one day after all the major US-based cruise brands made the same determination.

In any case, ships won't be able to sail until meeting extensive conditions for COVID-19 safety set forth by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC has outlined requirements but numerous specifics in the form of technical instructions are still to come.

Urgent work toward a responsible return

'We recognize the devastating impact that the pandemic continues to have on the 421,000 Americans whose livelihoods are connected directly to cruise operations,' CLIA said. 'We will work with urgency to advance a responsible return to cruising while maintaining a focus on effective, science-based measures to protect public health.'

According to CLIA, cruising generates more than $53bn in annual economic activity for the US and the 421,000 American jobs supported span many sectors.