In recent years, the relevance of searching for alternative solutions in the field of cross-border payments has been associated with sanctions restrictions against Russia, which negatively affect international trade not only in the Eurasia region, but throughout the world.

Maritime transport defied the COVID-19 disruption. In 2020, volumes fell less dramatically than expected and by the end of the year had rebounded, laying the foundations for a transformation in global supply chains and new maritime trade patterns.