This section, dedicated to port and shipping activities, includes research papers, focus articles, and interviews with Italian and foreign industry leaders. The ports are assessed from the point of view of their economic impact on the territory in which they are located, and of their appeal in terms of investments and the international competitiveness of their infrastructures. The ship-owning industry is analysed through research papers and comparisons between Italian and foreign industry players. Special emphasis will also be placed on the insurance sector.