Gdansk eyes bigger Arctic shipping role

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The CEO of Poland's Port of Gdansk said the emerging Arctic shipping route should be viewed not as a replacement for the Suez Canal, but as a strategic alternative that can strengthen global supply chain resilience.

Speaking at the 10th Maritime Silk Road Port Cooperation Forum in Ningbo, Dorota Pyc, president of the Management Board of the Port of Gdansk Authority, highlighted the growing partnership between the Port of Gdansk and Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, one of the world's busiest maritime hubs. 

Pyc pointed to the successful launch of a China-Europe Arctic container service in 2025 as evidence that a viable third maritime corridor between East Asia and Europe is beginning to take shape. The inaugural voyage connected Ningbo-Zhoushan Port with Gdansk in 26 days, significantly reducing transit times compared with traditional Suez Canal routes.

While acknowledging that Arctic shipping remains seasonal and faces operational, regulatory, and infrastructure challenges, Pyc argued that its greatest value lies in the flexibility it provides. In an era marked by geopolitical tensions, shipping disruptions, and congestion on established trade routes, she said, additional routing options are becoming increasingly important for businesses seeking more resilient supply chains.

Pyc also emphasized the importance of closer cooperation with Ningbo-Zhoushan Port beyond shipping services. She said both ports have an opportunity to help shape a greener maritime future, including by developing of low-carbon shipping corridors and alternative fuel infrastructure.

As Arctic shipping evolves from a pilot concept into a commercial option, she believes its long-term success will depend not only on speed, but also on reliability, sustainability, and the ability to offer businesses greater choice in an increasingly uncertain world.