FACTORS OF GLOBAL TRANSFORMATION IN INTERNATIONAL FREIGHT TRANSPORT

Abstract

This article identifies the factors that drive global transformations in international freight transport, namely: geopolitical, economic, social, technological and environmental. The impact of global trends on economic growth in countries with different income levels is studied. The relationship between geopolitical tensions and long-term prospects for the development of the world economy is established, as well as domestic political events that are considered sources of instability and lead to changes in the structure of supply chains. The dynamics of the impact of geopolitical factors on a global scale from the Cold War to the present day is presented based on the Geopolitical Risk Index. Classifications of geopolitical events by the nature of their occurrence that have had a negative impact on international freight transport are proposed: military conflicts and wars; international sanctions; security. It is noted that economic factors can either promote international transportation through reduced tariffs and standardization of rules, or vice versa, the policies of individual countries that violate existing rules lead to adjustments to established routes and the search for new markets. It is proven that the COVID-19 pandemic caused economic instability in the global trade space and contributed to the creation of “logistical chaos” and changes in freight logistics due to the need for sustainability of supply chains in the international market. It is noted that the established UN principles of sustainable development have created the basis for establishing common standards in the business environment, which have become the basis of social standards in trade relations, which leads to more sustainable supply chains. A chronology of technological innovations over the past 50 years that have occurred in the transport and logistics sectors and have ensured a revolution in the organization of international freight transportation is presented. The importance of complying with environmental rules and requirements when organizing international freight transportation was emphasized.