Gateway port profiles and chain supply competitiveness : the case of the Australian ports

Ferdoutsi, Maria Eleni; Φερδούτση, Μαρία Ελένη

Προφίλ λιμένων-πυλών και ανταγωνιστικότητα στην εφοδιαστική αλυσίδα : η περίπτωση των λιμένων της Αυστραλίας

Master Thesis

Author

Ferdoutsi, Maria Eleni

Φερδούτση, Μαρία Ελένη

Date

2026-03

Abstract

This thesis explores the relationship between gateway port profiles and supply chain competitiveness, focusing on major Australian ports such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. It examines how port infrastructure, operational efficiency, shipping route mapping, and hinterland connectivity affect Australia’s import/export performance and logistics capabilities. The study applies Logistics Performance Index (LPI) criteria to evaluate trade efficiency and identify areas for improvement in port management and policy. Beyond the Australian context, the research expands to selected African ports, where challenges such as poor infrastructure, limited connectivity, and political tensions hinder trade performance. Recent Chinese investments in African port infrastructure are assessed in terms of their strategic role in boosting regional logistics and supply chain development. The case of landlocked countries, like Kazakhstan, is also discussed to highlight the importance of corridor development and intermodal connectivity in integrating remote economies into global trade networks. Using a mixed-methods approach, the thesis combines secondary data analysis, port case studies, and benchmarking tools to develop a comprehensive understanding of how port development impacts national and regional competitiveness. The findings aim to support more strategic, data-driven decisions in port logistics, trade facilitation, and infrastructure investment.

Postgraduate Studies Programme

ΔΠΜΣ στη Διοίκηση στη Ναυτική Επιστήμη και Τεχνολογία

Department

Σχολή Ναυτιλίας και Βιομηχανίας. Τμήμα Ναυτιλιακών Σπουδών

Corporate Department

Hellenic Naval Academy

Number of pages

Language

English

URI

https://dione.lib.unipi.gr/xmlui/handle/unipi/19049

Collections

Τμήμα Ναυτιλιακών Σπουδών

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Except where otherwise noted, this item's license is described as
Αναφορά Δημιουργού-Μη Εμπορική Χρήση-Όχι Παράγωγα Έργα 3.0 Ελλάδα