Transformations in Finnish Ports during COVID-19 Era : Changes in Export Cargo Volumes in Selected Finnish Ports in 2019-2021

Abstract

This thesis has explored the trends and transformations in Finnish ports during the COVID-19 Era 2019-2021, with a specific focus on changes that occurred in export cargo volumes in the Ports of Helsinki, HaminaKotka, and Rauma. The COVID-19 pandemic despite its relative shortness has caused major disruptions in supply chains and logistics, in general, around the world by bringing both stopovers and surges to the ports globally. The major Finnish ports were not an exemption from this, necessitating an analysis of both short-term and long-term shifts in export volumes. Maritime export, in fact, is vital for Finnish economy, making this research an important part of reaching an understanding of the desired model of behaviour during the similar disruptions.

The research was conducted through the case analysis, data analysis from chosen Finnish ports, and interview with professionals from the Ports of Helsinki, providing an in-depth perspective on shifts in export volumes brought by pandemic. The findings revealed changes in export dynamics, driven by shifts in global trade patterns, logistical constraints, and policy responses. Another finding were the adaptations Finnish port professionals made during the pandemics in order to minimise the impact of disruptions. Such insights contributed to a broader understanding of the resilience and adaptability of Finnish ports in the face of unprecedented disruptions.