An examination of the interrelation between seaports and dry ports in developing countries: the case of Vietnam

Abstract

This research aims at exploring the interrelation between seaports and dry ports in developing countries using the case of Vietnam. Apart from secondary data analysis, in-depth interviews were conducted with relevant stakeholders of the seaport-dry port system to derive insights of their interrelation patterns in the case of Vietnam. It was found that there are four patterns of seaport-dry port interrelation in the country. In the competing pattern, dry ports are developed as satellite terminals to conduct some of seaports' activities without having interrelation with seaports. In the independent pattern, dry ports are the region's load centres with no direct relationship with seaports. Thirdly, the collaborative pattern refers to the model in which seaports collaborate with specific dry ports to secure their markets. Finally, in the extended gate pattern, dry ports are developed by seaports to reach a larger and farther hinterland. Academic and managerial implications are discussed accordingly.