Book excerpt: This timely and comprehensive new Handbook brings together an unrivalled group of distinguished scholars and practitioners to provide in-depth analysis and a contemporary perspective on a wide-ranging array of topics in maritime economics. Inherently global in nature, the economics of the maritime sector has proved pivotal in facilitating globalization and international trade. This Handbook offers a unique and indispensable source of reference and information for researchers, students and practitioners interested in the relationship between these developments and maritime markets.