Global Shipping in Transition: Resilience, Digitalization & ESG in International Shipping News 10/02/2026 Our study „Global Shipping in Transitionopens in a new tab“ analyses the far-reaching changes in international shipping and offers guidance to executives in a time of structural upheaval. Geopolitical tensions, regulatory requirements and technological innovations are fundamentally changing business models and competitive conditions. For managers in the industry, the study is a strategic tool for recognising risks and making future-proof decisions. Resilience: stability in a world of permanent crises The study shows that resilience today is more than just crisis prevention – it is a competitive advantage. The industry is reacting to: • Geopolitical conflicts such as in the Red Sea or Ukraine, which massively disrupt supply chains. • Volatile charter rates and port capacities that make operational planning more difficult. • Cost increases due to diversions, safety measures and new environmental regulations. Key messages: • Routes via the Cape of Good Hope cause up to 2.4 million US dollars in additional costs per round trip. • 80 per cent of European shippers see geopolitical risks as the biggest threat to their supply chains. Digitalisation: from vision to necessity Digital technologies are no longer optional, but crucial for efficiency, safety and sustainability. The study addresses: • Artificial intelligence for route optimisation, maintenance and emissions management. • IoT and digital twins for real-time monitoring of ships and ports. • Cybersecurity and regulation, for example through the EU AI Act and the NIS2 Directive. Market development: • The maritime digitalisation market will grow to over 395 billion US dollars by 2033. • Artificial intelligence alone is expected to reach a market value of USD 100 billion by 2033. ESG in shipping: sustainability as a measure of future viability ESG has long been more than just a regulatory issue – it influences financing, reputation and competitiveness in the shipping industry. The study shows three key areas of action: • Environment: Decarbonisation is progressing – with investments in alternative fuels such as methanol, bio-methane and ammonia as well as energy-efficient technologies. • Social: Companies are increasingly focussing on fair working conditions, better quality of life for the crew on board and more diversity in the workforce. • Governance: New reporting obligations such as CSRD and ESRS as well as ESG-linked remuneration systems make sustainability measurable and relevant to management. Financing trends: • Green bonds and the Poseidon Principles link access to capital with issuance performance. • The EU taxonomy defines clear criteria for green maritime assets. Conclusion: Three pillars for maritime future viability Resilience, digitalisation and ESG are not isolated topics – they form a strategic triangle for the future of shipping. The study provides data and food for thought for decision-makers who want to make their organisations crisis-proof, technology-driven and sustainable. Source: KPMG 2026-02-10 hellenicshippingnews... window.___gcfg = {lang: 'en-US'}; (function(w, d, s) { function go(){ var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0], load = function(url, id) { if (d.getElementById(id)) {return;} js = d.createElement(s); js.src = url; js.id = id; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); }; load('//connect.facebook.net/en/all.js#xfbml=1', 'fbjssdk'); load('https://apis.g