Topological Resilience of Shipping Alliances in Maritime Transportation Networks

Tiago Novaes Mathias (), Yoshihisa Sugimura, Tomoya Kawasaki and Yasuhiro Akakura
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Tiago Novaes Mathias: Infrastructure DX Engineering Department, Port and Airport Research Institute, Yokosuka 239-0826, Japan
Yoshihisa Sugimura: Graduate School of Maritime Sciences, Kobe University, Kobe 658-0022, Japan
Tomoya Kawasaki: Department of Systems Innovation, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8654, Japan
Yasuhiro Akakura: Graduate School of Management, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan

Logistics, 2025, vol. 9, issue 1, 1-32

Abstract: Background : The resilience of shipping alliances within the global maritime container network (GMCN) has critical implications for global trade. This study examines the topological robustness of strategic alliances (SAs) in liner shipping, focusing on their structural properties and responses to disruptions. Methods : Using pre-2019 container vessel schedule data, we constructed a weighted node-edge network model of the GMCN. Centrality metrics were computed to identify critical nodes, and simulations were conducted to evaluate network robustness under random failures (RFs) and targeted attacks (TAs). Results : The results highlight the GMCN’s scale-free topology, which fosters resilience against RFs but exposes vulnerabilities to TAs on high-centrality nodes like Singapore and Shanghai. Among alliances, 2M and Ocean demonstrated superior resilience, attributed to strategic port selection and extensive coverage, yet their reliance on central hubs presents significant risks. Conclusions : This study underscores the importance of alliance-specific strategies, such as infrastructure investments and redundancy planning, to mitigate vulnerabilities. By bridging gaps in existing literature, the research provides insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders to enhance the robustness and adaptability of maritime logistics networks. These findings contribute to ensuring stable global supply chains within an evolving trade environment.

Keywords: global maritime container network; strategic alliances; network topology; resilience analysis (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: L8 L80 L81 L86 L87 L9 L90 L91 L92 L93 L98 L99 M1 M10 M11 M16 M19 R4 R40 R41 R49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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