Maritime logistics research by authors based in South Asian institutions: a systematic review

Abstract

Systematic reviews improve future research by providing an overall picture of how research is conducted in a particular field. As a result, they are growing in number. As South Asia emerges as a geopolitical and maritime hub, attention must be shifted to maritime logistics in the region. This study examines how authors based in South Asian institutes contribute to maritime logistics research by way of a systematic review. It indicates that most research on maritime logistics in South Asia comes from India. Presenting the formulation of networks between authors and countries, the study reveals four research clusters that are derived based on the paper pool systematically derived through Scopus: i) Container terminal optimization, ii) Logistics activities in the hinterland, iii) Geopolitics in the maritime supply chain, and iv) Maritime transport. The evolution of South Asian maritime logistics is discussed based on the four clusters so derived. Moreover, the way that authors based in South Asia and their institutions have contributed journal articles in maritime logistics is discussed. Directions for future studies in maritime logistics in South Asia are introduced. We find that more collaborations can enhance the region’s maritime logistics research. Future studies may focus on industry academia and horizontal-vertical collaborations.