This Round Table publication discusses the policy and regulatory challenges posed
by the rapidly changing port environment. The sector has changed tremendously in recent
decades with technological and organisational innovation and a powerful expansion
of trade. Although ports serve hinterlands that now run deep into continents, competition
among ports is increasingly intense and their bargaining power in the supply chain
has consequently weakened. Greater port throughput is meeting with increasing resistance
from local communities because of pollution and congestion. In addition, local regulation
is warranted but made difficult by the distribution of bargaining power among stakeholders.
Higher-level authorities could develop more effective policies.
Published on June 19, 2009Also available in: French