Logistical and transportation infrastructure in Asia : potential for growth and development to support increasing trade with Europe

Abstract

This thesis examines the implications of the rapid growth in demand for trade between Europe and Asia for the existing transportation network and logistical infrastructure. In general terms, technologies need to improve and be compatible with each other, multimodalism and interconnectivity of the various modes needs to be fully implemented, capacities have to grow, facility efficiencies need to improve, planning processes, and government policies need to be updated, along with the growth of demand in the region. The nature and extent of the required changes depend on the role of each country in the region, as well as the capabilities and utilization of the existing infrastructure. The methodology involves an ABC analysis that groups the Asian countries in three categories depending on their level of development and infrastructure. The major transportation modes (urban, road, rail, sea, and air), the logistical infrastructure and the importance and use of Information Technology are examined. Leading economies of the region, categorized as "A" countries, appear to be very successful and are highly competitive in global trade. Network optimization and high technology applications, such as Intelligent Transportation Systems and Electronic Data Interchange can improve these countries' use of infrastructure. Developing countries of the region, categorized as "B" countries, need to further implement best practices and attract funds for the development of their infrastructure.

(cont.) Their needs include further development of the transportation network and integration of all the modes in order to assist their economy and global positioning. "C" countries have inadequate or non- existent infrastructure. These countries need to build or expand their basic infrastructure in order to assist in the transportation of their own products and be able to communicate with the rest of the world. Moreover, international interests imply that these countries provide adequate regional networks that interconnect with those of their neighbors. Directions are provided for the steps that need to follow in the developmental process. Priorities and policy options are analyzed.