Charting Trade Winds: Unravelling the Economic and Geopolitical Nexus of the Red Sea and Cape of Good Hope Routes

This research aims to explore how economic and geopolitical factors influence global commerce, political relationships, and regional dynamics along the Red Sea and Cape of Good Hope trade routes. Existing studies have not fully integrated these dimensions, which this research seeks to address. Using the Concentration Index (HH Index) as a quantitative tool, the study will analyse trade concentration along these routes, emphasizing the significance of specific countries or regions in global trade dynamics. This paper will also analyse historical trade patterns and contemporary economic drivers to understand the evolution and current state of trade. We will also explore how trade impacts power dynamics and geopolitical relationships. Game theory will provide a strategic lens to analyse interactions among nations along these trade routes, exploring cooperative and competitive strategies and potential alliances. Findings from this research will contribute new insights into the evolving dynamics of these maritime passages.