Determinants of strategic collaborations in container terminal operations

Abstract

This study examines the determinants of selecting strategic collaboration alternatives in container terminal operations, specifically in the port of Kaohsiung. An analytic hierarchy process (AHP) approach was used to examine the critical factors affecting strategic collaborations in the container terminal context. Results reveal that cost is the most important factor, followed by efficiency, service, risk, and compatibility factors. The findings suggest that joint venture is the best strategic collaborations pattern in container terminal operations. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings for container terminal operators are also discussed.