Italian Maritime Economy 2026: the new geography of global trade
10 July 2026
Geopolitical tensions are reshaping the geography of global trade. This is the key finding of the 13th edition of the Italian Maritime Economy 2026 Annual Report, produced by SRM, the research centre affiliated with the Intesa Sanpaolo Group. The report examines how international crises, evolving trade routes and changes in global value chains are redefining the role of ports, logistics and infrastructure in enhancing the competitiveness of economic systems.
According to the SRM Report, international trade is not slowing down but undergoing a profound reorganisation. Tensions affecting the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, the gradual rebalancing of trade between the United States, China and ASEAN countries, and the development of new logistics corridors are reshaping global trade routes. In this context, the challenge is no longer simply to move more goods, but to create more efficient connections between ports, rail networks, manufacturing hubs and international markets, while strengthening the resilience of supply chains.
"Never before has the sea provided such a valuable perspective for understanding the evolution of the global economy. Maritime routes, ports, strategic straits and logistics infrastructure are not merely components of the transport system: they are where international trade, energy security, industrial policy and new geopolitical balances converge"
Gian Maria Gros-Pietro, Chairman of Intesa Sanpaolo
For Intesa Sanpaolo, the maritime transport and logistics sector is of strategic importance. Italy's exports, energy supplies, tourism flows and an increasing share of the investments supporting the country's economic growth all depend on maritime transport. As a result, a significant part of Italy's competitiveness relies on the efficiency and effectiveness of its port and logistics system.
Key findings of the Report
The Report highlights several indicators that illustrate the ongoing transformation:
- More than 72 million TEUs handled by the Mediterranean's main container ports in 2025 (+5.9%)
- 511 million tonnes of cargo handled by Italian ports (+3.5%)
- €1.236 trillion in Italy's foreign trade, including €643 billion in exports; approximately one-quarter of the total value of trade is transported by sea
- 304 million tonnes transported through Short Sea Shipping, confirming Italy's position as Europe's leading market
- More than €13 billion in planned investments to improve accessibility, rail connections, last-mile infrastructure and the digitalisation of the port system.
From the sea to integrated logistics networks
The Report highlights how the increasing regionalisation of trade and the search for more resilient supply chains are reinforcing the Mediterranean's role as a strategic gateway linking Europe, Asia and Africa. Despite the disruptions affecting the Suez Canal, the region's main ports have continued to grow, and forecasts indicate a 15% increase in container traffic by 2030, confirming the area's ability to sustain long-term growth.
For Italy, one of Europe's leading manufacturing and exporting economies, this transformation represents a strategic opportunity. The Italian Maritime Economy 2026 Report shows that the country's competitive advantage will increasingly depend on its ability to integrate ports, rail infrastructure, industrial areas and advanced logistics. Addressing this challenge will require investment, innovation and a systemic approach to turn Italy's geographical position into a lasting driver of growth and international competitiveness.
Last updated 10 July 2026 at 10:53:46
