Port Efficiency Evaluation of Turkish Container Ports Based on DEA-SCOR Model: An Effective Sea Gateways in Türkiye for One Belt and One Road Initiative

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the relative operational efficiency of major Turkish container ports based on the Data Envelopment Analysis - Supply Chain Operations Reference (DEA-SCOR) model. While Turkish export and import figures are growing, the scientifical studies on operational efficiency of Turkish ports are gaining more attention day by day. Of course, one of the important import countries is China for Türkiye and BRI (One Belt and One Road Initiative) tends to support Turkish trade between western and eastern countries. Therefore, Turkish ports’ efficiencies should be identified and suggestions have been presented for further development. The sampling frame was chosen from the members of TURKLIM and therefore, the SCOR and Data Envelopment Methodology examined 23 seaports. Both methodologies are generally used for analyzing the operational efficiency of ship inward-outward and stackings. The findings of the study show that four major ports are the most efficient gateways to handle inward and outward container traffic with their input variables. However, there are some challenges in port investment for BRI. This study should be used for the further analysis in the sector reports and scientific papers.