Port Infrastructure and Supply Chain Integration under the Belt and Road Initiative: Role of Colombo Port in the Apparel Industry in South Asia

Abstract

This paper analyzes the role of port infrastructure in supply chain integration of the South Asian apparel industry through a case study of Colombo Port. Key factors for improving supply chain integration are first identified, such as reducing lead time production, increasing diversity of product lines and higher value-added products. The case study shows that the Colombo Port transshipment hub and its multi-country consolidation services have played a role in improving supply chain integration in these key factors. Nevertheless, there is a need to improve internal logistics and to improve matching port and logistics infrastructure in the rest of South Asia. We discuss policies for further improving port and logistics infrastructure that could be implemented under the Belt and Road Initiative.