Systematic Review of Port Choice Criteria for Evaluating Port Attractiveness Determinants (Part II)

Abstract

This paper serves as the continuation and conclusion of the systematic literature review (SLR) conducted in Part I, which focused on bibliometric and content analysis to explore port attractiveness. In this Part II, two key objectives are pursued: first, to identify and list the items that evaluate the nine Port Attractiveness Determinants (PADs), which were thoroughly discussed in Part I. Second, this Part II introduces the Port Attractiveness and Customer Satisfaction (PACS) Model/Tool, as outlined in the earlier part of the study. This holistic conceptual framework, developed specifically for port attractiveness, represents the culmination of this two-part study by providing a structured approach that consolidates the diverse criteria identified in studies on port choice, port selection, and port competitiveness. Based on a manual screening of 87 references—obtained through an SLR process and published between 1970 and 2022—116 attributes were identified and analyzed to evaluate the nine PADs. By addressing a significant framework gap in the literature, the PACS Model/Tool integrates theoretical rigor with practical applicability. Its core pillars are adaptable and contextualizable, allowing for application in other complex territorial contexts, such as train stations, airports, municipalities, regions, or nations. Ultimately, the goal of this study’s findings, through its two components—Part I and Part II—is to contribute to the advancement of academic knowledge on port development strategies while equipping decision-makers with actionable tools to tackle multifaceted challenges across diverse territorial settings.