Study on function evaluation and development directions of Chinese ports

Abstract

The definitions of a port and of port functions under new circumstances were presented based on the traditional definition of a port, combining economic and social development demands. In order to fully recognize the current situation of Chinese port functions, an investigation into port functions was conducted in Guangdong, Hebei and Shandong etc. Taking the investigated ports as reference samples, generational characteristics, port importance, port throughput, proportion of foreign trade cargo throughput, proportion of container throughput and proportion of container throughput on international routes are chosen as the major investigation objects. Furthermore, qualitative or quantitative partition methods are employed respectively to assess the present situation of ports and development stage of Chinese coastal ports and major river ports. Finally, a basic framework of Chinese port service function system and future development directions are established, combining characteristics of Chinese ports and by drawing lessons from port functions developments in foreign advanced countries.