Assessing Port Logistics Performance and Determinants of Competitiveness: Evidence from the Port of Tangier Med

Abstract

In today's competitive environment where the structure of supply chains are changing quickly, ports have become critical in the facilitation of global trade and thus, to remain competitive, must improve their logistical capabilities and integrate into global supply chains. As part of this objective, this study analyzes the relationship between SCM practices and logistics performance at the Port of Tangier Med. This paper also identifies the organizational, technological and cooperative factors that are associated with the logistics performance of the port and its level of competitiveness.         
To achieve these objectives, the authors of this study used a methodological approach based on a mixed methodology. The first phase was an exploratory qualitative one and included the realization of interviews with the different stakeholders of the port. The second phase was quantitative and descriptive and consisted of a survey conducted between April and July 2026 among 188 companies that operate in the port's ecosystem. The mixed methodology allowed identifying and describing the most important SCM practices linked to the coordination and integration of the network of the actors involved in the operation of the port.
The results of this study indicate that the logistics performance of the port is closely associated with the level of integration and coordination among the different stakeholders; supported by the use of ICT; the development of collaborative practices; and the existence of a good strategic plan. These elements are associated with improved operational flows and, consequently, with port competitiveness. The results of the study lead to several practical recommendations for the port managers and the policy makers, notably: strengthening the inter-organisations cooperation; investing in the human capital; accelerating the digital transformation; all these elements relevant to supporting the sustainable performance of the port studied.

Classification JEL : L2, L25.

Paper type: Empirical Research