Shipping Companies Strategies and Mediterranean Ports Competitiveness
19 Pages Posted: 3 Jul 2001
Abstract
The object of this paper is to explore the attractiveness of Mediterranean ports and their potential activity as gateway-terminals and hub ports, particularly in terms of the wealth of the surrounding regions.
There is recognition that:
- the liner shipping market has acquired a truly global dimension;
- liner shipping companies have consolidated their position;
- for liner shipping companies the Mediterranean is no longer a simple linking channel but instead a strategic localization for transshipment.
The globalisation and concentration of the liner shipping industry is strongly emphasized. The phenomenon of consolidation is also producing a visible dimensional increase among leading forwarders and logistics providers. While shipping companies control maritime legs, forward providers control inland legs and they are joining forces to master a larger market. However, this development is not yet observed in the Mediterranean zone, although the Mediterranean offers great potential for container throughput.
Keywords: Containers, ports, Mediterranean competitiveness, hub - spokes, transshipment, intermodal
JEL Classification: L99, L19, R49
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation