SWOT Analysis for Developing Dry Ports in Togo

Abstract

Dry ports currently play an integral role in the global logistics network relieving seaport from congestions and enabling more efficient and effective cargo handling with improved logistics solutions to facilitate cargo transportation for shippers in the port’s hinterland locations. This paper focuses on developing dry ports in Togo and the concept of dry port as well as the drivers behind the emergence and development of dry ports has been extensively reviewed in existing literatures. It also delves into the classification of dry ports based on the geographical factors relating to distance from the seaport. In addition, Port of Lomé is presented as a main gateway port for West African Landlocked Countries (LLC’s) with major focus on Lomé-Ouagadougou CU9 transit corridor, which remains a pivot channel for transporting merchandise designated for hinterland markets. Finally, SWOT analysis methodology was applied to analyze the endogenous and exogenous factors that are considered vital for developing dry ports in Togo followed by conclusion for future implementation.