Title: FACTORS AFFECTING THE PATTERN OF FUTURE DEMAND IN THE PORTS INDUSTRY
Abstract: All aspects of United Kingdom transport policy, especially ports policy, is currently under review. The primary objective is to achieve better modal integration. In Europe, a similar process is underway, with an emphasis on fair competition between modes delivered through a reform of funding and charging practices. The United Kingdom is an example of a country where as extensively as possible, a free market has been allowed to develop within the transport sector. The result is that road dominates freight movements because of its high flexibility and convenience. Ports are increasingly competing with rail for U.K. freight traffic following privatization of the rail network. Studies show that coastal shipping can only compete over very long distances. The latest estimates of U.K. port capacity indicated that there would be significant shortfalls in capacity in both ro-ro (roll on-roll off) and lo-lo (container) traffic and the possibility of lesser shortfalls in other commodities. The shift from traditional cargoes to containers and to ro-ro has had, and will continue to have, a major impact on U.K. ports. Equally significant is the rise in increasing trade with Europe. Investment is therefore needed in both ro-ro and container facilities in the future across a range of ports. A list of six conclusions and recommendations for the future is provided.
Publication Year: 2000
Publication Date: 2000-04-01
Language: en
Type: article
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Cited By Count: 1
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