Role of Ports and Berths in Shaping Trade in Indian Ocean Countries
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58932/MULG0051Keywords:
Indian Ocean, Maritime trade, National development, Logistic Performance Index (LPI), Country Policy and Institutional Assessment (CPIA, Maritime infrastructure, Logistics operations, Policy frameworksAbstract
This study evaluates the strategic importance of ports and berths in the Indian Ocean, assessing their impact on maritime trade and national development indicators such as the Logistic Performance Index (LPI) and Country Policy and Institutional Assessment (CPIA) scores. The research finds a significant positive correlation between the number of ports and berths and trade openness, suggesting that robust port facilities significantly boost a country's trade relative to its GDP. Furthermore, nations with well-developed ports and numerous berths exhibit higher LPI scores, indicating efficient logistics operations. Additionally, a strong link between extensive maritime infrastructure and higher CPIA scores demonstrates the critical synergy between effective maritime facilities and improved policy frameworks. These findings highlight the essential role of maritime infrastructure in enhancing economic development and optimizing logistics and policy environments in the Indian Ocean region.
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