The link between logistics and the economy has always been close. Today, in an environment marked by globalisation, geopolitical tensions, and trends towards regionalisation, the future of transport is at a crossroads. The economic decisions of states, companies and consumers influence the configuration of global logistics networks, posing a dilemma between global integration and reinforcement of local chains. Is this a step towards de-globalisation or a more complex evolution?
A new era of globalisation
Although the global economy has suffered recent disruptions, international trade flows remain robust. According to the Global Connectivity Index produced by a major logistics company, 75% of economic exchanges still depend on international networks. In addition to movements of capital, information and tourists, trade in goods has returned to near pre-pandemic levels, reflecting a sustained revival of international trade.
In transport and logistics, global reports estimate sustained growth in the sector of around 4% per year until 2026, with particularly strong increases in emerging economies in Asia and Latin America. This is evidence that, despite the challenges, the need for global interconnection continues to drive investment and infrastructure.
Shorter and more resilient supply chains
In parallel, many regions are opting to shorten their supply chains and strengthen local production, not as a total rejection of globalisation, but as a resilience strategy in the face of growing threats. The aim is to reduce external dependence, minimise logistical risks and adapt to stricter environmental regulations.
In this transformation process, logistics operators, including freight forwarders, shipping companies and multimodal platforms, are playing a key role. An example of this is SAM Algeciras, which acts as a strategic node in southern Europe, providing comprehensive solutions for intermodal transport and committing to technological innovation. Companies such as this one are increasingly integrating tools based on artificial intelligence for route optimisation, developing more efficient operating models and offering services geared towards compliance with regulations such as the EU ETS and FuelEU Maritime, which are setting a new course for maritime transport and international trade.
In this scenario, globalisation is not disappearing, but it is transforming: global interconnection and proximity strategies coexist, depending on the context, the sector and the region. Economic developments will determine the pace of investment, digitalisation and sustainability of global transport.