Maritime transport of goods is incredibly important in in today's economy. It is one of the most cost-effective and efficient ways to transport large quantities of goods over long distances, particularly for international trade. Shipping accounts for approximately 90% of global trade by volume and 60% by value, making it a critical component of the global economy. Maritime cargo transportation is especially important for the transportation of bulk commodities, such as oil, gas, coal, and iron ore, necessary for industrial production. It is also crucial for the transportation of consumer goods such as electronics, clothing, and food, which are produced in one part of the world and consumed in another. The efficiency and cost-effectiveness of maritime freight transportation have been enhanced by advances in technology, including the development of larger and more efficient vessels, as well as improvements in port infrastructure and logistics management. These advancements have enabled sea freight transportation to become increasingly competitive with other modes of transport, such as air and road, especially for long-distance and large-volume shipments. Overall, maritime freight transport plays a vital role in today's global economy, supporting international trade, economic growth and the movement of goods between countries and continents. In recent years, maritime cargo logistics in Ukraine has undergone significant changes driven by a combination of government initiatives, private investment, technological advances, and macroeconomic factors. This article discusses current trends, problems and prospects for the development of Ukrainian and global maritime transport sectors, and provides recommendations for improving the efficiency of maritime transport and ports to accelerate economic development. One of the key drivers of this development was the modernization and expansion of Ukraine's seaport infrastructure. These improvements have enabled Ukrainian ports to handle larger volumes of cargo and manage the flow of goods more efficiently. In general, the development of maritime logistics in Ukraine continues, and there is potential for further growth and improvement even in wartime.