联合国贸发会：2023年全球海运述评报告_159页_8mb

Summary of Review of Maritime Transport 2023: Towards a Green and Just Transition

Core Content

The Review of Maritime Transport 2023 provides an in-depth analysis of the current state and future outlook of the global maritime transport sector, emphasizing the need for a green and just transition. It outlines the challenges and opportunities facing the industry in the context of geopolitical tensions, climate change, and digital transformation.

Main Viewpoints

1. International Maritime Trade

• Trade Flows: Global seaborne trade has shown resilience despite challenges. In 2022, it declined by 0.4%, but growth resumed in 2023, with an estimated increase of 2.4%. The Review forecasts continued growth at a moderate rate (2.1% over the next five years).
• Disruptions: Ongoing disruptions to shipping and ports, especially due to the war in Ukraine, have affected energy and food security. The Black Sea Initiative played a significant role in facilitating grain exports but was discontinued.
• Geographical Shifts: There is a noticeable shift in the geography of maritime trade, driven by growing commercial tensions and new transport and trade patterns. The average distance travelled for several commodities, including oil and grain, has increased in 2023 compared to previous years.
• Regional Variations: Seaborne containerized trade varies significantly across sub-regions, with some areas experiencing more growth or decline than others.

2. World Shipping Fleet, Services, and Freight Rates

• Fleet Development: The global shipping fleet is aging, with a slowdown in growth. The world fleet's composition and capacity have changed over the years, with new operators entering the market and existing ones consolidating.
• Freight Market Trends: The container shipping market has softened, with a 3.7% decline in 2022. However, the Review predicts a 1.2% increase in 2023. Freight rates and indices (such as the SCFI and BDI) reflect these market dynamics.
• Policy Recommendations: The Review suggests the need for regulatory and policy frameworks that support fleet modernization, cost efficiency, and sustainable practices.

3. Decarbonizing Shipping

• Carbon Emissions: International shipping emissions increased by 20% compared to 2013. The sector is under pressure to reduce its carbon footprint and align with global climate goals.
• Fuel Transition: Alternative fuels and energy-saving technologies are being explored, but they are not yet available at scale and are more expensive. The transition to these fuels is expected to be gradual.
• Implications for States: Developing countries, particularly least developed countries (LDCs) and small island developing states (SIDS), may face higher inflationary pressures due to the cost of transitioning to greener shipping practices.
• Policy Recommendations: The Review recommends the development of economic measures that can fund decarbonization efforts, reduce the cost gap between traditional and alternative fuels, and support developing countries in this transition.

4. Port Performance and Maritime Trade Facilitation

• Port Efficiency: Port performance has improved in some regions, with the Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) showing better efficiency in key ports. However, delays and inefficiencies still persist.
• Trade Facilitation: Digitalization and modernization of port processes are essential for improving efficiency, reducing costs, and minimizing delays. The Review highlights the importance of electronic bills of lading, port community systems (PCS), and customs automation (e.g., ASYCUDA).
• Lessons from Programs: The TrainForTrade Port Management Programme has provided valuable insights into port performance improvements and the implementation of trade facilitation measures.
• Policy Recommendations: The Review calls for increased investment in ports, especially in developing countries, and for the promotion of digital and trade facilitation initiatives.

5. Legal Issues and Regulatory Developments

• Regulatory Measures: The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is advancing regulatory frameworks to support decarbonization, including the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI).
• Legal Instruments: The Review discusses the potential of electronic bills of lading and other legal tools to streamline trade processes and reduce environmental impact.
• Global Cooperation: The importance of international cooperation in addressing maritime pollution and promoting sustainable practices is emphasized.
• Policy Recommendations: The Review advocates for the development of legal and regulatory frameworks that facilitate the transition to a more sustainable and efficient maritime transport system.

Key Information

• Contributors: The report was prepared by UNCTAD with contributions from officials and partners across various regions and organizations.
• Peer Review: It was reviewed by experts from the International Chamber of Shipping and other UN bodies.
• Data Sources: The Review includes a range of data and figures, such as trade growth trends, fleet statistics, and port performance indicators, to support its analysis.
• Resources: UNCTAD provides access to maritime statistics and datasets through its online platform, enabling further research and analysis.

Conclusion

The Review of Maritime Transport 2023 underscores the critical role of maritime transport in global trade and highlights the challenges and opportunities for a green and just transition. It calls for coordinated efforts among governments, international organizations, and the private sector to address environmental, economic, and operational challenges in the sector. The report also emphasizes the importance of digital transformation and regulatory reforms in achieving sustainable and efficient maritime trade.