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Challenges in the Digital Transformation of Ports

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  • Fernando Almeida

    (Institute for Systems and Computer Engineering of Porto, Polytechnic Higher Institute of Gaya (ISPGAYA), 4200-465 Porto, Portugal)

Abstract

Digital transformation plays a significant role in modernizing and improving the efficiency of ports around the world. However, digitalization also brings a set of challenges that ports must face. They have to respond to several unique challenges because of the complexity of their operations and the varying demands of stakeholders. This study seeks to identify and summarize the challenges of digital transformation processes in ports. For this purpose, the World Ports Sustainability Program database was used. The findings revealed 74 digitalization initiatives carried out by ports, which makes it possible to recognize 7 dimensions and 32 sub-dimensions of challenges to the digital transformation process. Among the identified dimensions are port infrastructure, the interconnection between various systems, the port organization model, regulation, security and privacy, market evolution, and the establishment of partnerships to implement these projects. The results of this study are relevant to mitigate the risks of the digitalization process in ports and respond to market needs that demand greater transparency and visibility of their operations.

Suggested Citation

  • Fernando Almeida, 2023. "Challenges in the Digital Transformation of Ports," Businesses, MDPI, vol. 3(4), pages 1-21, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jbusin:v:3:y:2023:i:4:p:34-568:d:1271871
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    5. Jonas Mendes Constante & Peter W. Langen & Salvador Furió Pruñonosa, 2023. "Innovation ecosystems in ports: a comparative analysis of Rotterdam and Valencia," Journal of Shipping and Trade, Springer, vol. 8(1), pages 1-19, December.
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    Cited by:

    1. Luís Silva Lopes & João Lemos Nabais & Claúdio Pinto & Vitor Caldeirinha & Tiago Pinho, 2025. "Essential Competencies in Maritime and Port Logistics: A Study on the Current Needs of the Sector," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(6), pages 1-19, March.
    2. Marino Lupi & Daniele Conte & Stefano Benenati & Alessandro Farina, 2024. "Design and Development of a New Web Platform for the Management of Physical Flows and Customs Documents at Port Terminals," Logistics, MDPI, vol. 9(1), pages 1-28, December.
    3. Nicoletta González-Cancelas & Jean Pierre Celso Palacios Calzada & Javier Vaca-Cabrero & Alberto Camarero-Orive, 2025. "Optimizing Sustainable Port Logistics in Spanish Ports with Emerging Technologies," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(8), pages 1-24, April.

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