European Seaport Cargo Management: Adaptations Amidst the Global Economic Crisis

The current economic crisis, intensified by global shifts, has dramatically impacted international trade and supply chains. This crisis presents unique challenges distinct from previous episodes. This study aims to determine how European pandemic-related restrictions and the armed conflict in Ukraine have influenced seaport cargo volumes. It evaluates variations in sea-transported cargo volumes during crises and examines continuity changes in foreign trade. Data from 2020–2022, covering the gross weight of goods transported through significant ports in 23 European countries, was sourced from the UNCTAD database. The Kolmogorov–Smirnov test assessed distribution normality, while the variance homogeneity test gauged model sphericity. The Friedman test identified differences for dependent variables in maritime transport patterns. Results indicate that the impacts of the pandemic and the Ukrainian conflict on seaport trade depend on the crisis timeline. Despite facing unprecedented challenges, the maritime transport sector is adaptable to changing international trade conditions, hinting at potential similar responses in future crises.