'The success of the Arctic route has nothing to do with its commercial potential, which remains extremely limited'

The Northern Sea Route has seen a significant increase in traffic, with 133 ships navigating it in September 2026, a fourfold rise from four years prior. This surge is attributed to rising temperatures and geopolitical factors affecting other shipping routes. Notably, a Chinese company has established a regular commercial line, and a South Korean vessel completed a trial voyage. Despite this growth, the Arctic route remains minor compared to the Suez Canal, primarily serving as a supplementary route for transporting hydrocarbons and raw materials between China and Russia. Experts caution that it is not yet a viable alternative to major maritime corridors.