Liner shipping network vulnerability to component disruptions: A China-Europe container flow analysis

This study conducts a vulnerability analysis of the China-Europe liner shipping network, including all relevant liner shipping services and China Railway Express services. The standard multicommodity network flow model is extended to assess network vulnerability and the relative importance of ports and services by simulating container flow redistribution in various disruption scenarios. The results show the network is highly resilient to both individual port disruptions and individual service disruptions. Additionally, the distinct shipping network structures of the three shipping alliances result in varying degrees of vulnerability, highlighting the significance of diversified market suppliers in enhancing the overall network resilience. Specifically, the Ocean Alliance is vital in facilitating China-Europe trade, especially along the Mediterranean route, and is more resilient to individual port disruptions.