International Journal of Shipping and Transport Logistics (30 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Open Access

  An empirical study of Sino-European trade geographic regional competition under the Belt and Road and Arctic Routes based on transportation cost equilibrium line model ( Free Full-text Access )

  by Manling Zhang, Tianming Ding, Chaojun Ding 
  Abstract: With the advancement of globalisation and the growth in trade activities, the demand for goods transportation between China and Europe has been continuously increasing. Faced with the ever-growing demand for cargo transportation, the commercial application of Arctic routes has presented new opportunities. In the new landscape of the traditional Suez Canal route (SCR), China-Europe freight trains, and Arctic routes, starting from China-Europe trade, utilising China’s railway freight rates and maritime data, incorporating the time value cost of goods into freight calculations, and constructing a transportation cost equilibrium analysis model, we aim to explore the competitive advantages of Arctic routes, the SCR, and China-Europe freight trains in different regions. The results show that it is most economical to transport containerised goods from the northern and eastern regions of China through Arctic routes.
  Keywords: Arctic routes; Suez Canal route; China-Europe Railway Express; time value cost of goods; advantageous competitive region partition.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2024.10064765
   
  

• Open Access

  The dynamic coupling relationship between port and city from the perspective of port container traffic and the economy of port city ( Free Full-text Access )

  by Dong Huang, Hongxiang Feng, Manel Grifoll, Pengjun Zheng, Qin Lin 
  Abstract: This study aims to explore the dynamic coupling relationships and the inter-lagging effects between the port and port city based on the auto-regression distribute lag model (ARDL) and error correction model (ECM). An empirical analysis of the Yangtze River Delta multi-port system was performed for illustration and verification purposes from the perspective of container traffic and the economy of the port city. Results show that port container traffic and the economy of the port city have significant interaction for both short and long-run relationships, but different-scale ports have different port-city relationships and different inter-lagging effects. The findings also show that tertiary industry (TI) activities are the most associated with port development, secondary industry (SI) is second, and primary industry (PI) has less connection with port development. Meanwhile, with the extension of the lagging periods, the positive and negative effects are always declining. In terms of methodology, this framework is also helpful and applicable to other ports and port cities worldwide, and the empirical analysis also can provide managerial insight for policymakers and investors.
  Keywords: port-city dynamic coupling relationships; inter-lagging effects; ARDL-ECM; the Yangtze River Delta multi-port system.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2024.10065737
   
  

• Open Access

  The road to synchromodality - an exploratory study of drivers, facilitators, barriers, and components ( Free Full-text Access )

  by Diogo Cotta, Kristel Alons-Hen, Ron Van Duin, Adela Iriskic 
  Abstract: This paper augments current knowledge about synchromodality by investigating the factors that underpin the implementation of this logistical paradigm in an effort to inform managerial practice and public policy. Employing a conceptual model of drivers, facilitators, barriers, and managerial actions, we conducted a qualitative study with European experts on synchromodality. We identified drivers, such as complexity reduction or more efficient inventory management, and contextual characteristics (facilitators and barriers) that enable or hinder synchromodality, such as operational flexibility or resistance to change. Regarding managerial actions (components), we find that data governance and interfirm trust issues are salient aspects for sustaining synchromodality. Furthermore, we specified how policymakers can influence the necessary conditions and the health of partnerships for synchromodality implementation. The paper contributes to the existing logistics literature by studying synchromodality implementation issues beyond the optimisation frameworks examined by analytical models and beyond the technological focus of extant empirical studies.
  Keywords: synchromodality; implementation challenges; expert interviews; policymaking; barriers; drivers.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2025.10071926
   
  
• Freight Throughput Forecast of China Airport Based on Random Forest Algorithm  
  by Hang He, Jie Wang, Jinghui Zhang 
  Abstract: In order to improve prediction accuracy and assist the air transport decision-making department in formulating a more reasonable transportation plan, this paper proposes the random forest algorithm (RFA) to handle high-dimensional variables and construct an airport freight throughput prediction model. Given that the airport’s freight throughput is influenced by a complex environment, 18 influencing factors were assessed using Pearson correlation analysis to measure the strength of the correlation between these factors and airport freight throughput. The prediction model’ s critical parameters were then determined using grid search and cross-validation, including the number of decision trees, depth of decision trees, and the number of feature variables. The model’s important variable scores were ranked, and optimal parameters were selected to establish the RFA regression prediction model. Finally, using Wuhan Airport as an example, the established RFA regression prediction model was used to verify the prediction results on the test set. The prediction effect was compared with the results of the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model, multiple regression analysis, and the back-propagation (BP) neural network model. The results indicate that the RFA-based regression prediction model has higher prediction accuracy.
  Keywords: airport freight throughput; random forest algorithm; RFA; Pearson correlation coefficient analysis; prediction; China.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2024.10064069
   
  
• A Forward-Looking Study on the Opening of the Northeast Passage: Addressing the Challenges of "Port-City Block"  
  by Wenqian Chang, Nan Li, Guoyue Han, Yingxiu Zhao 
  Abstract: The opening of the Arctic's Northeast Passage (NEP) anticipates port expansion, but imbalanced port-city relations may escalate conflicts between ports and cities. Consequently, comprehending the phased dynamics between port operations and socio-economic factors, along with devising effective governance strategies, becomes imperative. This study introduces the concept of "Port-City Block" grounded in symbiotic theory and delves into its origins and consequences. Furthermore, it employs partial differential equations to simulate the manifestation of "Port-City Block" under various conditions. Finally, the results of the simulation are validated by examining endpoint cities in Northeast Asia. This forward-looking study proposes: (1) Port invasion in the prospering NEP corridor can be expressed by the friction coefficient that encompasses element associations and spatial effects. Therefore, governance strategies should prioritize the regulation of this friction coefficient. (2) Adaptive governance measures are recommended for transshipment ports along the NEP corridor, including Busan, Kobe, and Vladivostok, etc.
  Keywords: Port-City Block; simulation; symbiosis; friction coefficient; Northeast Passage.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2024.10064763
   
  
• Port competition, connectivity and accessibility changes under the disturbance: the case of the Chinese port system  
  by Dong Huang, Hongxiang Feng, Manel Grifoll, Pengjun Zheng, Qin Lin 
  Abstract: To investigate the challenge of disturbances such as COVID-19, we proposed a method to explore the competition, connectivity and accessibility changes in port systems under the disturbance. And then, this method is applied to Chinese port systems in the context of COVID-19. Results indicate: First, lower-intensity competition mainly occurred in the pre-COVID-19 period while high-intensity competition mainly took place in the post-COVID-19 period. Second, the COVID-19 pandemic weakened the connectivity and accessibility of the port. Finally, from the perspective of the Chinese port systems, before COVID-19, Ningbo Port faced the most competition, which came from Shanghai Port. However, after COVID-19, Guangzhou Port had the fiercest competition that happened with Xiamen Port and Qingdao Port. In terms of connectivity and accessibility, the ranking of the Chinese port system is as follows: YRDP, PRDP and BRP. Meanwhile, Shanghai Port has the highest connectivity and accessibility, followed by Ningbo Port and Shenzhen Port.
  Keywords: COVID-19; port container traffic; port competition; port connectivity and accessibility; Chinese port systems.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2024.10064764
   
  
• Mixed-frequency data-driven forecasting port throughput: A novel attention-DeepAR-MIDAS model  
  by Bo Shao, Xiaoli Su, Xin Li, Xingxuan Zhuo 
  Abstract: Forecasting cargo throughput is an essential albeit challenging task for national and port optimization decision-making, resource allocation, and control planning To this end, a novel forecasting model is developed for mixed-frequency data called attention-DeepAR-MIDAS (ADM) by introducing MIDAS technique and attention mechanism into the DeepAR forecasting algorithm in this study The proposed ADM model enhances the sensitivity of endogenous and exogenous variables in time Furthermore, the ADM model possesses both long-term and short-term high-precision forecasting capabilities, enabling multi-step probability forecasting and better tracking of abnormal changes in endogenous and exogenous variables of port throughput, fitting their fluctuation trends By analyzing the differences in model performance before and after improvement based on forecast accuracy metrics, probability interval testing, and DM testing methods, the ADM model achieves accurate forecasting Finally, China’s monthly port throughput forecast results also illustrate the superiority of the ADM model, which provides decision-makers with more timely, accurate forecasts.
  Keywords: Machine learning; Mixed-frequency data; Nonlinearity; Time-series; port throughput forecasting.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2024.10065736
   
  
• Fuel consumption model of marine main engine and speed optimization based on carbon intensity indicator  
  by Yingbin Chen, Sheng Ji, Guoxiang Dong, Yiyan Wen, Jipan Qiao 
  Abstract: With the introduction of the carbon intensity indicator (CII) for international shipping and its official implementation on January 1, 2023, energy conservation, emission reduction and green development of the shipping industry have once again attracted much attention. In order to further improve the efficiency of ship energy consumption, the grey box model (GBM) coupled with ship physical characteristics and machine learning algorithm is proposed and compared with the white box model (WBM) and the black box model (BBM). Based on the grey box model of random forest (GBM RF), a new strategy for ship speed optimisation is proposed. The experimental results show that the performance of WBM is poor, and BBM has the highest prediction accuracy when the number of sample data is large. GBM can encapsulate the mechanical method of WBM into BBM, so as to achieve the same performance of BBM. Especially when the number of samples is small, GBM performs satisfactorily. In addition, the results show that GBM can be used as an effective tool for ship speed optimisation.
  Keywords: fuel consumption model; speed optimisation; carbon intensity indicator; CII; grey box model; GBM; white box model; WBM; black box model; BBM.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2024.10065738
   
  
• Evaluation of emission trading scheme effectiveness in freight transportation  
  by Yue Feng, Mingyuan Yue, Lei Dai, Hao Hu 
  Abstract: Decarbonization for the freight transportation sector has long been a difficult global problem. ETS is seen as an effective market-based measure to achieve CO2 emission reduction in many industries in the short term. However, no comprehensive transportation ETS has been designed and the potential effectiveness in the freight sector has not been verified. A freight energy-emission-economic impact model (FE3IM) is proposed to investigate the feasibility of freight transportation ETS. The energy, emission, and economic impacts of transportation ETS are quantified in this paper. In order to achieve the most effective ETS design, some important elements are adjusted to observe their impact on emission reduction. An empirical study of China’s freight sector shows that ETS has a significant impact on emission reduction. In addition, ETS can also help adjust the transport structure and promote electrification. However, the current ETS design makes it difficult to achieve emission abatement goals. More radical measures are needed to achieve the emission peak. Improving carbon pricing, reducing free allowances, or increasing subsidies for new energy vehicles will play a positive role in achieving the CO2 emission abatement objective.
  Keywords: freight transportation; CO2 emission; emission trading scheme; ETS; energy; decarbonisation cost.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2024.10066306
   
  
• Can Air Transportation Reach to Zero Carbon Emissions: Comparative Econometric Analysis Between Transportation Modes in US  
  by Hicran Ergen, Alper Aslan, Erkam Emin Ayvaz 
  Abstract: The lack of research examining the impact of all modes of transportation on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions evaluated collectively in a single study is a void in the transportation-environment literature This research fills that need by utilizing the ARDL technique to project forward in time and estimate the impact of various transportation modes, including pipelines, on CO2 emissions in the United States between 1980- 2020 In a distinct model that takes into account economic development and energy use, all forms of transportation modes are analyzed The findings of the ARDL suggest that there is a correlation that is interpreted as a statistically significant inverse link between the modes of transportation of air and pipelines and CO2 emissions A 1% increase in air transportation and pipeline transportation causing a decrease of CO2 emissions by 0 03% and 0 06% respectively.
  Keywords: CO2 emissions; air transportation; transportation modes; pipeline transportation.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2024.10067463
   
  
• Research on the high-performance development path of China's seaport shipping logistics based on Fs-QCA method  
  by Jiaoping Yang, Xu Yan, Yalin Fan, Jianhua Zhu 
  Abstract: Taking 51 coastal ports in China as research samples, this study adopts fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (Fs-QCA) method to explore the linkage effect and path selection of enhancing port shipping cargo performance under the three dimensions of location resources, accessibility, and opening up. The study finds that the high-performance development of port logistics in China has diversified development modes, which can be summarised into three types: resource-balanced, location-access dual dominant-driven, and access-driven. When port cities have inherent deficiencies in certain conveniences, they can achieve high cargo performance through other paths. The study also finds that although the high access capacity of ports is not the necessary condition for any of these modes, the lack of high access capacity is the common reason for the low performance of related ports in terms of cargo.
  Keywords: port shipping; throughput; shipping lanes; accessibility; Fs-QCA; China.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2024.10067465
   
  
• Simultaneous consideration of the accident and terror risks for hazardous materials transportation  
  by Zafer YILMAZ, Vedat Verter 
  Abstract: We develop a methodology that incorporates the risk of terrorist attacks as well as the traditional accident risks. We study the accident and terror risks individually, and together to show their differences and impact on optimal routes. We consider the terrorist attacks against a single hazmat vehicle as well as a convoy including hazmat vehicles. Convoy formations, vehicle placements and movements, terrorists’ attack capabilities are analysed in detail to estimate the undesirable consequences of an attack. A case study focusing on south-east region of Turkey, suffering from terrorist attacks, is developed. Based on data from past ten years, the proposed risk assessment method is incorporated in a GIS framework to identify the best paths among the common origin-destination pairs. Our findings indicate the necessity to update the traditional hazmat risk models in terror-prone areas, since there are significant changes in the optimal routes when the terror risk is also included.
  Keywords: hazmat transportation; hazmat route planning; hazmat transport risk assessment; terrorist assaults.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2024.10067467
   
  
• The relationship between fleet structures and business models of combined airline cargo companies: A comparison with apriori algorithm  
  by ?hsan ?ahin, Sava? Selahattin Ate? 
  Abstract: The aim of this study is to uncover the association between the aircraft in the fleets of airlines involved in combined freight transportation and to assess the utilisation patterns of similar aircraft categories by airlines. In their aircraft selection process, airlines consider a variety of factors, including range, fuel efficiency, and capacity. Examining the structure of other airlines’ fleets during the aircraft procurement process can give airlines a competitive edge. Airlines can employ the apriori algorithm, a data mining technique, to uncover hidden association rules among aircraft within their fleets. This study begins by showcasing the implementation of the apriori algorithm. It then delves into the operations of six airlines, each of which had an associated aircraft. Next, the cargo handling equipment used by each aircraft across these six carriers is compared. We anticipate that the results may shed light on airline executives and organisations within the aircraft supply chain.
  Keywords: combined airlines; apriori algorithm; airline management; fleet structures.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2024.10067468
   
  
• Risk Analysis of Oil Tanker Accidents in Southeast Asia by using Data Driven Bayesian Network  
  by Xiaoxing Gong, Yiming Guo, Hanwen Fan 
  Abstract: In this study, a new risk analysis framework on oil tanker accidents has been created utilising the benefits of the tree-augmented na
  Keywords: maritime safety; maritime accidents; maritime risk; data-driven Bayesian.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2024.10067469
   
  
• Investigating the Role of Digital Technologies in Sustainable Logistics Management: Case Study of Logistics Service Providers in ECOWAS Countries  
  by SEYDOU DRAMANE KONE, JINGXIAO ZHANG, CAROLINE OLUFUNKE ESANGBEDO, MOUSSA SALI, SIMON P. PHILBIN, NABILA CHOUAIB KANTE 
  Abstract: Logistics sustainability is becoming an increasingly important research area. This expanding importance has resulted in the requirement to develop digitalised logistics activities to meet the needs of logistics companies, policymakers, and logistics service providers (LSPs). This study aims to explore the scope for digital technologies for building a sustainable logistics management system. The empirical study collected primary data from 459 respondents based at LSPs in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The study employs maximum likelihood-structural equation modelling (ML-SEM) to investigate from the perspective of LSPs, the relationship between digital technologies, the triple bottom line sustainability aspects (i.e., environmental, social, economic), and sustainable logistics management. The findings reveal that digital technologies can: 1) enhance the efficiency of sustainable activities in the logistics industry; 2) have the potential to enhance sustainable activities in the environmental and social aspects. Moreover, the findings identify a strong interrelationship between the environmental, and social aspects and sustainable logistics management. However, the results revealed a non-significant interconnection between digital technologies, economic sustainability, and sustainable logistics management. This study contributes to the growing literature about sustainability in different industries, specifically in ECOWAS countries’ logistics industry.
  Keywords: digital technologies; triple bottom line aspects; sustainable logistics management; Economic Community of West African States; ECOWAS; logistics service providers; LSPs.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2024.10068115
   
  
• Anomaly Levels of Factors Affecting the Estimated Price of a Second-Hand Ship  
  by Gülden Öner, BURAK GÖKSU, Ersin Aç?kgöz 
  Abstract: This is a study to determine the variables and their affects related to second-hand ship prices and predict the prices of ships with the anomalies and make suggestions to their reasons on information acquired from the sales of 1283 pre-owned Panamax-class vessels between 2010 and 2022. The regression model was used as a pre-selection method to specify the variables associated with the prices of second-hand ships, and the Artificial Neural Networks model was used to predict the prices of these ships and to determine the anomalies related to the price estimation. As a result, there is a significant relationship between the age of the ships, tonnage, LIBOR interest rates, crude oil prices, freight rates and second hand prices. In ships older than 20 years and between 65000-75000 DWT, very low and high freight rates, low crude oil prices and high interest rates, anomaly prices are high.
  Keywords: ANN; panamax bulk carriers; price anomalies; regression; second-hand ship.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2024.10068116
   
  
• Electric vehicle routing problem with pickup and delivery under the partial recharging and non-linear discharging strategy  
  by Si Zhang, Tang Zhong Yue, Li Lu 
  Abstract: Electric vehicles’ usage in distribution motivates the research of the Electric Vehicle Routing Problem. This paper considers the piecewise linear recharging and non-linear discharging strategy for electric vehicles with the time windows and pickup and delivery service, and allows partial recharge (EVPTNL-PR), whose objective is to minimize the total cost. The problem is formulated as a mixed integer nonlinear programming model and solved by the improved Adaptive Large Neighborhood Search algorithm which applies several new removal and insertion operations and adaptive mechanisms. And extensive computational experiments are carried out to assess the importance of the realistic factors studied in the model. The results demonstrate that the realities in the problem of electric vehicles distribution make path planning more accurate and the improved algorithm performs well in finding high-quality solutions.
  Keywords: Electric vehicle routing problem; Delivery and pickup; Piecewise linear recharging; Non-linear discharging; Partial recharge?Adaptive large neighborhood search.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2025.10068683
   
  
• Applying public information to make green shipping investment decisions  
  by Jialin Yang, Kevin Cullinane, Yinen Ge 
  Abstract: Confronted with a surfeit of green shipping information and a variety of alternative fuels and technologies, the investment decisions facing shipping companies have become increasingly complex. Applying the novel granular fuzzy pay-off method (FPOM), this paper aims to provide a conceptually meaningful, understandable and easily applicable methodology for investment in green shipping. Based on public information, this paper conducts a case study relating to four popular kinds of ship fuels (namely diesel, LNG, methanol and hydrogen) to show how to use this method in financing a green ship. The results show that this methodology performs well under such a scenario. It indicates that, for the case study presented, LNG is an excellent transitional green fuel for use in the near future, regarding both financial benefit and emissions reduction. In addition, compared to the price of carbon, in the short-term fuel costs are more influential in a shipping company’s green shipping investment decision process.
  Keywords: green shipping finance; alternative fuel; carbon price; granular fuzzy pay-off method; possibilistic mean; probabilistic mean.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2025.10069308
   
  
• Ownership Reform in Action: Does Gratuitous Transfer Boost Productivity in China's Transportation Enterprises?  
  by Jinglei Yang, Mengchi Li, Xiaofan Wu 
  Abstract: This study aims to empirically investigate the impact of gratuitous transfers on total factor productivity (TFP) within China's state-owned enterprises (SOEs), specifically focusing on the transportation sector. In doing so, we challenge the traditional skepticism regarding the effectiveness of gratuitous transfers as a mechanism for enhancing productivity. Gratuitous transfers stand as an important instrument for ownership reform in China's SOEs. Using a Difference-in-difference model and analyzing data from 98 transportation companies over 20 years, the research shows that gratuitous transfers can significantly boost total factor productivity (TFP) in transportation sector. Unlike conventional mergers and acquisitions (M&A) which focus on short-term gains, gratuitous transfers target long-term productivity through governance reforms and digitalization. The study also underscores the importance of transparency and fairness in the gratuitous transfer process to ensure its positive impact on SOEs' efficiency.
  Keywords: Gratuitous transfer; Transportation sector; Total factor productivity; State-owned enterprises; Difference-in-difference model; Mechanism analyses.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2025.10069309
   
  
• Application of Extended Pythagorean Fuzzy TOPSIS method for evaluating Smart Containers  
  by Sujan Mondal, ANKITA RAY, Sourav Das 
  Abstract: Industry 5.0 introduces “society 5.0” along with the concept of Industry 4.0 which engages customization with smart systems and provides smart logistics and supply chain management. As a significant component of smart logistic systems smart containers have gained global attention from academia and industry due to their flexible and traceable features to optimize logistic networks. However, the value-driven complexities of Industry 5.0 make it challenging for users to identify the best smart container. This study addresses this issue by applying an Extended Pythagorean Fuzzy TOPSIS (PF-TOPSIS) method, an advanced multi-criteria decision-making approach that integrates Pythagorean fuzzy sets to handle uncertainty in evaluating complex criteria. In the application section, five different smart containers are examined based on nine different diverging criteria. PF-TOPSIS method enhances the selection approach by incorporating membership, non-membership and degree of hesitation allowing for a more nuanced evaluation. The outcome shows that the usability and adaptation of decision-making approaches can help the logistics manager make informed choices. Finally, sensitivity analysis is performed to define the robustness of the experimental results.
  Keywords: Multi-criteria decision-making; Industry 5.0; Smart container; Extended PF-TOPSIS; Sensitivity Analysis.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2025.10069310
   
  
• Evaluation of Factors Affecting UAV Selection in Urban Air Logistics  
  by Yasin Mercan, Volkan Yavaş, Dilek Can 
  Abstract: As the Urban Air Mobility (UAM) system continues to grow in popularity, it is regarded as one of the most significant innovations in the aviation sector. It is believed that the future of logistics operations will experience breakthroughs with the UAM system and aircraft. The purpose of this study is to ascertain what the shippers, or stakeholders, anticipate from the Urban Air Logistics (UAL) aircraft (UAV, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicle), which will be utilized in logistics operations. Based on scholarly research and industry discussions about UAM and logistics, 11 important factors for choosing aircraft were found. These criteria are classified under two main headings: technical criteria and operational criteria As a result of the findings, it was concluded that technical criteria are more important than operational criteria with a small difference.
  Keywords: Urban Air Mobility; UAM; Logistics; MCDM; FUCOM.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2025.10070305
   
  
• Behaviour of agricultural commodity freight rates and structural breaks  
  by Andréa Leda Ramos De Oliveira OLIVEIRA A. L. R., Thayane Caroline Oliveira Da Conceição Conceição T. C. O., Matheus Souza, Tatiana Russo 
  Abstract: Brazil is the world's largest producer and exporter of agricultural commodities, while facing logistical weaknesses and a heavy reliance on road transport. This study examines abrupt variations in a time series of soybean and maize road freight rates in Brazil using the Bai and Perron methodology to identify structural breaks. The analytical approach employed a dynamic programming algorithm to locate significant breaks. The results highlight that these breaks were outcomes of economic, political, and market events, such as the lorry drivers’ strike in 2018, the promulgation of Law 13,703, the completion of the paving of highway BR-163, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the increase in grain exports, the Russia-Ukraine war, and the spike in oil and diesel prices, all of which directly impacted road freight rates and the transport industry. These conclusions underscore the necessity of assessing the agricultural commodity supply chain in uncertain settings to support decision-making and impact mitigation.
  Keywords: time series; political-economic impacts; volatility; agro-industrial chain.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2025.10070306
   
  
• Intermodal Port Access and Egress Transportation under Green Concerns: A Systematic Literature Review  
  by Ying Du, Feng LIAN, Zhongzhen Yang 
  Abstract: This paper systematically reviews the research advancements in port access and egress intermodal transportation under green concerns. Existing studies in this domain can be categorized into three themes by their research objectives: (1) focusing on calculating and analyzing the CO2 emissions generated by various port access and egress transportation modes; (2) focusing on optimizing the transportation network through applying operations research techniques to shift transportation modes from high-carbon to low-carbon; and (3) focusing on assessing the environmental performance and CO2 reduction potential of the optimized transportation network. Finally, by classifying the problem characteristics and research methodologies for each theme and analyzing the similarities and research gaps of studies in each theme, this paper discusses future research opportunities: (1) the trade-off between environmental benefits and efficiency losses; (2) the ports’ pivotal role in integrating landside and seaside transportation processes and guiding landside modal shift; and (3) the life cycle CO2 emissions forecasting for reconstructed intermodal transportation systems.
  Keywords: Port access and egress transportation; CO2 emission; Intermodal transportation; Modal shift; Transportation and environment.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2025.10070307
   
  
• Port infrastructure optimisation model: integration of berth allocation (BAP) and channel scheduling (ChSP) with consideration of tide variation and vessel navigation speed  
  by Suárez Motato Frank Didier, Londoño Ortega Julio César, Bravo Bastidas Juan José 
  Abstract: The proper allocation of vessels to berths represents a significant challenge that aims to utilise resources efficiently whilst providing good service to the vessels. This task is exceedingly complex when considering real-world constraints such as tides, draught, access channels, service times, speeds, and berthing and unberthing priorities. In this work, the berth allocation problem (BAP) is integrated with the channel scheduling problem (SChP) and the real constraints existing in maritime ports. To address this problem, we developed a mixed-integer linear programming model and compared it with a model presented in the literature. The results show that, by considering the real constraints of ports, vessel scheduling can change significantly.
  Keywords: berth allocation; discrete berthing; access channel; tides; navigation speed.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2025.10070693
   
  
• Dynamic pricing research for container terminal handling charge in competitive game environment  
  by Yi Ding, Jia Liu, Kaimin Chen, Youxuan Pan 
  Abstract: The container terminal handling charge (THC) is a critical source of revenue for terminals. The recent downturn in the maritime market, coupled with escalating price wars among terminals, has heightened the urgency to establish an appropriate THC pricing strategy. This paper investigates the phenomenon of low-price competition in container handling services and proposes a demand information sharing scheme. We present a nonlinear game model to clarify the interactions between price, demand, cost, and competition. To address this model, we apply the Bayesian learning method to forecast future demand via the proposed scheme, while a heuristic algorithm identifies the Nash equilibrium. This study aims to introduce a novel THC pricing approach that mitigates vicious competition through a demand information sharing scheme, enabling dynamic THC pricing for increased profitability. Additionally, we compare the effect of demand information sharing scheme in duopolistic competition and multi-terminals competition, emphasising the importance of widespread cooperation.
  Keywords: dynamic pricing; demand information sharing; terminal handling charge; THC; Bayesian learning; competitive game.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2025.10071253
   
  
• Research on the optimisation of equipment configurations in smart ports based on self-adaptive theory  
  by Fayi Huang, Dequan Zhou, Yuhan Yang, Xufeng Tang 
  Abstract: The importance of international maritime transportation in global trade is self-evident. However, the increasing frequency of maritime trade has imposed greater demands on maritime supply chains. This study aims to investigate the efficient scheduling of multitier equipment in automated container terminals. An integrated model encompassing berths, container yards and transportation subsystems is considered. Owing to the complexity of the proposed model, a comprehensive optimisation framework is developed by combining mathematical optimisation and simulation optimisation methods, along with the application of self-adaptive theory, to achieve optimality for specific indicators in the model. Finally, numerical experiments using real-world data are conducted to verify the effectiveness of the proposed model and algorithm.
  Keywords: adaptive genetic algorithm; AGA; simulation optimisation; mixed integer programming; port equipment scheduling.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2025.10071355
   
  
• Hub-and-spoke network design: disruption mitigation and resilience enhancement  
  by Dengyuhui Li, Dongning Liu, Jianbin Jiao, Shouyang Wang, Guanghui Zhou 
  Abstract: As maritime uncertainty escalates, the unpredictable disruptions pose serious challenges to optimisation decisions. This study aims to design a hub-and-spoke network considering disruption mitigation and resilience enhancement. The patterns of complete or partial disruption of pivotal nodes and connecting paths in a network are analysed, and resilience strategies considering absorptive, adaptive, and restorative capabilities are discussed. A bi-objective mixed-integer linear programming optimisation model is constructed that considers allocation and reinforcement decisions before disruptions and restoration decisions after disruptions, with the minimum economic cost and maximum resilience level. Subsequently, a non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm is proposed, which includes a two-stage initial population generation method and self-adaptive local search strategies. Numerical experiments validate that the proposed model and algorithm can effectively enhance the system resilience while optimising the economic cost. Furthermore, a case study is presented in the context of the Asia-Europe trade corridor. Sensitivity analyses and managerial insights are also provided.
  Keywords: maritime transport; international supply chain; hub-and-spoke network; disruption; resilience.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2025.10071892
   
  
• The spatial dependence of container throughputs and liner shipping connectivity in coastal countries prior to the COVID-19 pandemic  
  by Pei-Chun Lin, T.C.Edwin Cheng, Po-Yuan Huang 
  Abstract: This study explored the relationship between container throughputs and liner shipping connectivity for coastal countries. We use UNCTAD data to investigate the spatial relationship between container throughput and liner shipping connectivity across a sample of 138 coastal countries. We demonstrated empirically that container throughputs are spatially clustered: the container throughput of a coastal country is similar to those of its neighbouring countries and trade agreement partners. We also showed there is a spillover effect of container throughputs; one coastal countrys throughput is explained by those of other countries through spatial connections. The growth in one coastal countrys container throughput has a positive ripple effect on the global economy, leading to higher throughputs in other countries. We measure the total effect of liner shipping connectivity on container throughputs, as well as compare the effects transmitted to neighbouring countries based on sea distances with those transmitted to partner countries signed trade agreements. The studys findings suggest that understanding and enhancing liner connectivity is essential for optimising container throughputs at the country level, emphasising the critical role of network structure and technological advancements in shaping maritime transport dynamics.
  Keywords: liner shipping performance index; LSCI; container throughputs; connectivity; neighbouring countries; free trade agreement; spatial dependence.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2025.10071913
   
  
• Optimal second-tier hub port for enhanced infrastructure connectivity in the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership  
  by Narthsirinth Netirith, Mingjun Ji 
  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.2025.10071978
   
  
• Governance strategies for emission control areas: a tripartite game perspective of port state, flag state and shipping company  
  by Jihong Chen, Aoyu Li, Lang Xu, Jinyu Xu, Cheng Kun Liu, Jianghao Xu 
  Abstract: To reduce ship emissions during navigation and berthing, the IMO has established emission control areas (ECAs), but their effectiveness remains limited. To address fragmented regulations and weak compliance incentives, we develop a tripartite evolutionary game model involving port states, flag states, and shipping companies, revealing the dynamics of collaborative governance. Results show that port states unilateral regulation faces diminishing returns, and penalties alone are insufficient. Flag state participation depends on effective reputation incentives, with a threshold between international benefits and regulatory costs. Coupled parameter analysis highlights the leverage of governance synergy on cost optimisation and the role of regulatory success in shaping shipping company strategies. This study proposes an incentive-compatible framework for transboundary regulation, offering theoretical support for overcoming sovereignty barriers and enhancing global maritime emission governance.
  Keywords: emission control area; ECA; evolutionary games; cooperative regulation; synergistic effect.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTL.2025.10071979