ABSTRACT
As an essential sub-network of the global liner shipping network, China's international liner shipping network was the earliest to be affected by the COVID-19 and also had a significant impact on the global shipping network. This paper uses Automatic Identification System (AIS) data to analyze the impact of COVID-19 on the typical route networks and major ports of China's international liner shipping. On this basis, the changes in network efficiency and connectivity under the failure of important nodes is simulated. The research finds that, during the epidemic period, the scale of China's international liner shipping network increased, with more routes gathering at fewer hub ports. Still, the overall connectivity and connection strength declined. Meanwhile, the epidemic caused fluctuations in container volume and the mismatch of ship cargo capacity supply, in which China-U.S. routes was the most prominent. From the view of node, the competitiveness of China's mainland ports was significantly promoted during the epidemic. In addition, ports such as Busan, Singapore, and Hong Kong substantially impacted China's international liner shipping network. The current study might be helpful for the industry management departments and related companies to prepare contingency plans, thus enhancing the resilience of the logistics chain and ensuring the stability of the global supply chain.
ABSTRACT
Container shipping network is an important basis for global manufacturing and supply chain operation. China’s international liner shipping network has become one of the most essential sub-networks of the global container shipping network. Based on ship Automatic Identification System (AIS) data, this paper calculated the leading indicators of complex networks of China’s international liner shipping network, the Belt and Road network, the China-US network, and the China-Africa network. Analyzed the network characteristics, port importance, and network evolution and vulnerability. The study found that, from 2016 to 2019, the scope of China’s international liner shipping network was expanded. The number of nodes increased from 468 to 622, and the efficiency of the network has increased by 7.8%. In the meantime, the importance of ports in the network has changed, as Busan replaced Singapore as the highest connectivity node of China's container shipping network. Moreover, the paralysis of Busan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Antwerp, and Port Said has a significant impact on China's foreign trade route network transportation. This study helps us to assess the vulnerability of shipping networks under the impact of COVID-19 and provides useful Suggestions for maintaining global supply chain security.