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In the context of sanctions restrictions, Russia is actively reshaping its logistics routes, shifting cargo flows to the Eastern direction. The Russian Far East has a unique geographical location, serving as a link between the countries of the Asia-Pacific region and the European part of Russia. This article explores the potential of the Northern Sea Route (NSR) as a global transportation alternative in the context of the changing geopolitical and economic reality. The theoretical framework of the study is based on the principles of new economic geography, which emphasizes the systemic role of communications. The methodology includes a general scientific approach and an analysis of expert assessments. The paper provides a detailed comparison of the NSR and the traditional route through the Suez Canal, highlighting the exist- ing advantages of the Arctic route, which are supported by the activity of Chinese shipping companies. Along with the advantages, the paper also identifies the main challenges, including harsh climatic conditions, dependence on icebreaking fleets, and insufficient development of port and rescue infrastructure. Russia's large-scale infrastructure projects (expansion of the nuclear icebreaker fleet and modernization of ports) and the digital integration of Russia's and China's transport and logistics platforms (GosLog and LOGINK) are considered key areas of development, which together have the potential to transform the Northern Sea Route into a full-fledged transcontinental highway.
Northern Sea Route, international transport corridors, transit container transportation, digi- talization, port infrastructure, icebreaker fleet.
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