Title: Optimal second-tier hub port for enhanced infrastructure connectivity in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership

Authors: Narthsirinth Netirith; Mingjun Ji

Addresses: Department of Logistics Engineering and Management, School of Transportation Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian 116026, China ' Department of Logistics Engineering and Management, School of Transportation Engineering, Dalian Maritime University, Dalian 116026, China

Abstract: This paper explores the strategic positioning of second-tier hub ports within the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). The primary aim is to augment maritime transport and seabound trade by optimising containerisation transhipment and distribution processes. This paper addressed a specialised variant of the single hub location-allocation problem by focusing on a designated second-tier hub port within the RCEP region. This study describes the optimal placement of this hub port and the corresponding feeder port allocations to enhance transhipment efficiency, regional connectivity, and feeder service distribution throughout the RCEP. This analysis identifies Songkhla Port as the most suitable location for establishing a second-tier hub port by utilising an integer linear programming model tailored for single allocation scenarios. The findings provide valuable insights that could strengthen the development and execution of evidence-based policies and strategic initiatives, thereby strengthening maritime infrastructure and promoting economic integration across the RCEP.

Keywords: hub-and-spoke system; single hub location-allocation; second-tier port; regional connectivity; Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership; RCEP.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2025.149593

International Journal of Shipping and Transport Logistics, 2025 Vol.21 No.4, pp.533 - 556

Received: 14 Jun 2024
Accepted: 04 Feb 2025
Published online: 07 Nov 2025 *

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