Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Economics and Political Science - Department of Economics

Efficient seaports are essential for national, regional and international logistics and business more generally. However, efficient seaport performance depends on a number of factors, including adequate facilities and technology for cargo handling, accessibility and connectivity (both seaside and landside), seaport location in relation to trade routes and hinterland, skills and labor, as well as appropriate managerial technologies. While some of these factors may be in the control of seaport management, others may be beyond their immediate control.This study focuses on seaport efficiency between north and south of the Mediterranean Sea, with specific reference to Egypt. Egyptian seaports occupy a strategic location on the Asia-Europe international trade route, and between Africa and Europe. Therefore, they have the potential to play an important role in local and regional economies, acting as critical nodes in international logistics and supply chains. However, the persistently weak performance of seaports across the country undermines this potential. Poor performance at the seaports has, for example, pushed big carriers to bypass Egyptian seaports for the seaports of neighboring countries. Additionally, many traders in the region transport cargo through seaports other than Egyptian's

Issued also as CD