Assessment of container port competitiveness: The case of the port of Djibouti

Sustained growth in international seaborne container trade and changes in the global container shipping industry have brought about fierce competition among ports around the world. As a result of these dynamics port authorities and port operators have been constantly under pressure to adapt to these changes. These circumstances justify the rationale for these key port stakeholders to develop effective strategies for their survival by carrying out a methodical analysis of port competitive strategy. However, in addition to being a strategic issue, the evaluation of port competitiveness involves also a multicriteria analysis where a number of criteria and set of alternatives need to be selected. The objective of this study is to assess the competitiveness of the port of Djibouti in a comprehensive and holistic fashion. In doing so, first the strategic competitive position of Djibouti port in the regional market is determined using the BCG matrix. Then, a competitve power analysis of the port in comparison to its rivals is carried out through applying the Analytic Hierarchy Process model. Finally, a SWOT analysis on the focus port is conducted to suggest more synthesized outcomes on its overall competitiveness. The results of the study can make useful contribution to the strategy formulation process for port development in Djibouti. Keywords: AHP, BCG matrix; port competitiveness; port of Djibouti; SWOT analysis.