Conditions for the Operation of Transport Enterprises in the Development of Trade between Europe and the Caucasus Countries – Managerial, Economic, and Geopolitical Aspects
Purpose: This study aims to identify the managerial, economic, and geopolitical conditions influencing the operation of transport enterprises supporting trade between Europe and the South Caucasus. It examines how strategic management capabilities, bilateral trade patterns, and transport security shape the development of sustainable logistics connections between the two regions. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study adopts a qualitative research design based on a literature review, comparative analysis, and desk research. It integrates perspectives from strategic management, international trade, transport economics, and political studies. Official trade statistics, international reports, and policy documents are analysed to assess Poland's role in Europe–Caucasus trade and the impact of geopolitical developments on transport security in Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia during 2020–2026. Findings: The results indicate that the competitiveness of transport enterprises increasingly depends on adaptive management, resilience, digitalisation, and sustainability rather than solely on transport costs. Poland has the potential to serve as a logistics gateway to Central and Northern Europe, although trade with the South Caucasus remains uneven and underutilised. Geopolitical developments, including regional conflicts and the growing importance of the Middle Corridor, significantly influence transport accessibility and logistics reliability. Practical Implications: The findings support transport enterprises and policymakers in strengthening logistics resilience through risk management, transport corridor diversification, digital transformation, and cross-border cooperation. Originality/Value: The study integrates managerial, economic, and geopolitical perspectives into a comprehensive framework explaining the operation of transport enterprises within the Europe–South Caucasus trade corridor and the relationship between enterprise strategy, trade development, and transport security.