Freedom of shipping is a term referred to the unrestricted movement of ships carrying goods, people or services across borders. It can also be described as the right to trade by sea without restrictions or limitations imposed by governments or authorities. Synonyms for this term may include "maritime freedom," "seaborne trade liberty," "oceanic commerce autonomy," "navigational independence," "water-borne movement authorization," or "shipping rights." All these synonyms emphasize the importance of free and unimpeded movement of ships and trade across the seas, and the need for governments to guard against any form of restrictions or encumbrances that could impede this essential economic activity.