On measuring the efficiency of Brazilian ports and their management models

Abstract

Brazil is currently encumbered with various logistical inefficiencies, some of which related to the port logistics chain, affecting the competitiveness of the country’s exporters and importers. Given this context, it is important to assess the efficiency of ports as strategic links in this chain. The article evaluates and compares the efficiency of the main Brazilian ports using data envelopment analysis. The inputs used are cargo capacity, quay length and maximum draft. Outputs considered are cargo throughput and the number of shipping calls. Owing to the diversity of the Brazilian port system, the main goal of this article, in addition to identifying the most efficient port, is an attempt to assess whether the nature of cargo handled, or the management model adopted, affect significantly efficiency. Outcomes indicate that the port of Paranagua is the most efficient port of Brazil and could therefore be considered as a benchmark. Our analysis did not find significant efficiency differences based on different management models or nature of cargo handled.