From the goods we consume to the energy that powers our economies, maritime transport is the backbone of international trade and the global economy. Over 80% of the volume of international trade in goods is carried by sea, with an even higher share for most developing countries.
Published annually since 1968, the Review of Maritime Transport provides analysis and comprehensive statistics on seaborne trade, shipping and ports.
Geopolitical tensions, trade policy shifts, supply chain reconfiguration, disruptions to major shipping routes, digitalization, cybersecurity risks and the transition to cleaner energy are reshaping maritime transport, bringing increasingly complex challenges but also creating new opportunities.
The 2026 edition examines how the sector is changing and what this means for developing countries, particularly small island developing states, least developed countries and landlocked developing countries. It covers maritime trade, shipping fleets and services, freight rates and transport costs, port performance, trade facilitation and legal and regulatory developments.
Under the theme "Shipping at a crossroads: Navigating risks, sustainability and resilience", the report explores how maritime transport can become more resilient, reliable, affordable and sustainable while supporting food and energy security, supply chain integration and access to global markets.
The Report is under embargo until 10:00 hrs. (CET) / 09:00 hrs. (GMT)
on 26 November 2026
More on the Review of Maritime Transport series