Connectivity to international markets: A multi-layered network approach

Abstract

Improving connectivity for freight movements between countries is increasingly a topic at the centre of the international trade and transport policy agendas. In spite of this, a method to asses a country's degree of connectivity to its international markets for freight is still missing. To close this gap, this paper proposes a multi-layered network approach that enables the assessment of: (i) the different factors that influence connectivity to international markets; and (ii) the extent to which a country's connections matter for its international trade activities. The international trade network and its ‘support network’ are analysed using network theory. The approach proposed is applied to the Americas, a region the relevant literature has not specifically focused on yet. It is expected that a comprehensive understanding and assessment of the determinants of connectivity for freight will contribute to guide and design more effective policies to remove barriers to international trade flows.