Container hub-port vulnerability: Hong Kong, Kaohsiung and Xiamen. Issue 1 (2nd January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Su, Dong-Taur; Hsieh, Cheng-Hsien; Tai, Hui-Huang
• Is Part Of: Journal of marine engineering and technology. Volume 15:Issue 1(2016)
• Page Start: 19
• Page End: 30
• Publication Date: 2016-01-02
• Subjects: 623.805
• DOI: 10.1080/20464177.2016.1140551
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2046-4177

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Because of the extreme climate and environmental changes, container hub-ports in East Asia focus on port vulnerability rather than competitiveness. To sustain their competitive advantage, port operators adopt appropriate operational strategies based on various factors. We found that the strategies which container carriers adopt at hub ports have the most significant influence on hub-port vulnerability. The primary strategies include route diversity, sufficient cargo sources and transshipment containers, stable collaboration and incentives in the form of subsidies and rewards. These strategies demonstrate the dependence of container carriers on ports, and implementing such measures could reduce port vulnerability. Compared with the neighbouring Hong Kong and Xiamen ports, Kaohsiung Port is the most vulnerable and Hong Kong the least. Regarding all operating conditions that can be offered to carriers, Hong Kong Port possesses a competitive advantage that combats vulnerability.