TRENDS OF FREIGHT POLICY IN MODERN SHIPPING

Abstract

The article examines the current trends in freight policy formation in world shipping. The role and significance of freight policy in modern shipping is outlined. It is noted that an effective freight policy ensures the stability of shipping operators' revenues, optimization of fleet use, as well as adaptation to market fluctuations and global logistics changes. The main factors affecting the level of freight rates are analyzed, in particular changes in the structure of world trade, fluctuations in demand and supply for transport services, the development of shipping alliances and digitalization of chartering processes. The role of geopolitical risks, climate challenges and regulatory initiatives of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in the transformation of approaches to pricing and fleet management is determined. A conclusion was made about the need to form flexible freight policy strategies taking into account digital forecasting tools and market analytics.

Key trends are reviewed, including flexible pricing, hedging and regulatory adaptation. The directions for the development of freight policy are presented separately, which involves further digitalization, greening of transportation and integration with multimodal logistics chains. The directions of adaptation of shipping companies to changes in market, technological and environmental conditions have been determined. Special attention is paid to digitization of freight processes, integration of predictive analytics, development of strategic alliances, ecological modernization of the fleet and diversification of logistics services. The material can be useful for specialists in the field of maritime transport, logistics management and strategic transportation planning.