General trend in the development of the global maritime transport industry

The global maritime transport industry is witnessing significant changes driven by environmental regulations, evolving trade routes, and advancements in ship design. A major trend is the shift towards sustainability, with stringent international standards like IMO 2020 pushing shipping companies to reduce sulfur emissions and adopt cleaner fuels such as LNG (liquefied natural gas). Additionally, alternative energy sources, including hydrogen and wind-assisted propulsion, are gaining traction as the industry seeks to lower its carbon footprint. Another key development is the changing landscape of global trade. Geopolitical factors, regional trade agreements, and emerging market growth reshape traditional shipping routes. Ports and logistics hubs are being modernized to handle increased volumes, larger vessels, and more efficient loading and unloading processes. Investments in port infrastructure, especially in Asia and Africa, are helping to facilitate the growth of maritime commerce. The ongoing modernization of ships, coupled with new regulations and trade dynamics, is positioning the maritime industry to become more sustainable, efficient, and adaptable to future challenges. The study's object is the maritime trade market itself, focusing on the factors influencing the formation of its parameters – such as freight rates, demand for shipping services, vessel capacity, and the influence of external factors like economic cycles, regulatory frameworks, and technological advancements. The study primarily aims to analyze the key patterns that shape the maritime trade market and identify the emerging trends that will influence its future development. The research draws on the works of leading scholars and industry experts, such as P. Alderton, C. Sellberg, J.-J Lambin, N. Husarina, M. Assen, O. Katerna, and J. Lambin. The results of this study are intended for a wide audience, including industry professionals seeking to understand market dynamics, policymakers responsible for regulating maritime trade, and academics researching global trade systems. By providing a comprehensive analysis, this study offers valuable insights that will contribute to informed decision-making in the maritime sector.