Supply Chain Integration and port competitiveness: a network approach

The chapter addresses the issue of port value creation from a supply chain integration (SCI) perspective. Based on the concept of supply chain management (SCM), a theoretical model is proposed aimed at identifying the sources of value creation in port environment. The model views the port as a network of actors, resources and activities that co-produces value by promoting a number of interdependencies and assumes that the competitiveness of this port supply network increasingly depends on its "organisational component" as it affects the quality of services including range of logistics services, information and communication technology (ICT) solutions, know-how, and relationships in the port network itself. The final purpose of this model is the definition of a pro-active role of port in supply chain integration and therefore to support port authorities in defining their strategies in the context of growing complexity affecting both the port community and the external competitive arena.