Establishing the Core Transport Network in Russia as a Foundation for Advancing Russia–China Cooperation along the Polar Silk Road
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17059/ekon.reg.2026-3-18Keywords:
Northern Sea Route, Polar Silk Road, transport and logistics framework, backbone transport network, latitudinal and meridional routes, transport connectivity, Arctic, Russia-China cooperationAbstract
Global logistics is being reshaped by sanctions pressure and Russia’s growing economic reorientation toward the East. Against this backdrop, this study examines Russia–China transport and logistics cooperation in the Arctic, focusing on how the Northern Sea Route can be linked to the Polar Silk Road. The article develops a matrix transport and logistics framework that integrates maritime, land, and inland waterway routes. Unlike linear transport corridors or conventional multimodal networks, this model treats the Northern Sea Route as a latitudinal backbone axis, connected to meridional railway and inland waterway routes. The study’s novelty lies in substantiating this matrix-based backbone network, which enables cargo flows to be redistributed and gives Russia’s inland regions better access to the global ocean. Methodologically, the study combines comparative index analysis (using the EDAS method), systemic analysis, and conceptual modelling. The empirical base includes quarterly UNCTADstat data for 2006–2024 on the LSCI and PLSCI indices, container throughput, shipbuilding, nationally flagged fleets, and certified seafarers. It also draws on academic publications from 2008–2025, analytical reports, and strategic documents from Russia and China. The findings show a marked asymmetry between the two countries: China ranks first among BRICS countries in maritime and port potential, while Russia ranks fourth. This gap shows up clearly in container throughput (246.6 million TEU for China versus 4.8 million TEU for Russia) and port connectivity (1,126 versus 159). Even so, Russia’s aggregate port PLSCI grew by roughly 61 % over 2006–2024. The study demonstrates that a “China — Trans-Siberian Railway — Arctic ports — Northern Sea Route — China” model could reduce empty container repositioning, strengthen the resilience of cargo flows, and diversify trade routes between the two countries. Scaling this model, however, will require synchronizing navigation regimes, developing port and rail infrastructure, expanding the container cargo base, and improving institutional coordination.
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