The Impact of Waterways on Global Supply Chains and Maritime Transport: A Statistical Study of Selected Models

Jassim, Fatima Hassan

doi:10.63677/jqlap.2025.164006.1392

The Impact of Waterways on Global Supply Chains and Maritime Transport: A Statistical Study of Selected Models

https://doi.org/10.63677/jqlap.2025.164006.1392

Volume 17, Issue: 1 part 1
Winter 2026

Pages 719-742

AL-Qadisiya Journal For Law and Political Sciences

Document Type : Research Paper

Author

Fatima Hassan Jassim

Nahrain University / College of Political Science

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the economic dimensions of global waterways, such as the Suez Canal, the Strait of Malacca, and the Panama Canal, by assessing their contribution to GDP, annual revenues, and logistical investments. The researcher adopted a comparative approach and quantitative data analysis, along with the examination of numerical tables and official data issued by the concerned countries. The results revealed a clear positive correlation between the importance of a waterway—in terms of time-saving and cost reduction—and its contribution to the national economy. For instance, the Suez Canal alone recorded revenues of $9.4 billion in 2024, while revenues from the Strait of Malacca exceeded $25 billion. The study recommends expanding investments in waterway infrastructure, strengthening international alliances, and adopting integrated policies to enhance the economic efficiency of these vital maritime passages.
The importance of this research lies in highlighting the pivotal role of waterways in the stability of global supply chains and maritime traffic, and in analyzing the challenges that threaten their efficiency in light of rapid international changes.

Keywords

Waterways

Global Supply Chains

Maritime Transport