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An Overview of Critical Success Factors for Digital Shipping Corridors: A Roadmap for Maritime Logistics Modernization

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  • Seyedeh Azadeh Alavi-Borazjani

    (Department of Environment and Planning, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
    Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal)

  • Alberto Antonio Bengue

    (Department of Environment and Planning, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
    Port of Luanda, Luanda P.O. Box 1224-C1, Angola)

  • Valentina Chkoniya

    (Aveiro Institute of Accounting and Administration (ISCA), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
    Research Unit on Governance, Competitiveness and Public Policies (GOVCOPP), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
    Institute for Sustainability and Innovation in Structural Engineering (ISISE), Department of Civil Engineering, University of Coimbra, 3030-788 Coimbra, Portugal)

  • Muhammad Noman Shafique

    (Department of Environment and Planning, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
    Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
    Research Unit on Governance, Competitiveness and Public Policies (GOVCOPP), University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal)

Abstract

Digital Shipping Corridors (DSCs) are gaining traction as integrated models for increasing transparency, efficiency, and sustainability in maritime logistics. Yet, the enabling conditions for their effective implementation remain insufficiently explored. This study employs a qualitative thematic review approach, analyzing the academic literature, global policy documents, and selected case studies to identify and synthesize the critical success factors for DSC development. The analysis reveals seven interdependent factors: technological infrastructure, economic feasibility, regulatory frameworks, logistical efficiency, logistical security, stakeholder collaboration, and environmental sustainability. These factors are not independent but interact dynamically, requiring coordinated development across technical, institutional, and environmental domains. This study proposes a dynamic interaction framework that illustrates how progress in one area (e.g., digital infrastructure) depends on readiness in others (e.g., governance and cross-sector collaboration). The outcomes contribute both conceptually and practically. The framework offers a system-level understanding of DSC implementation and identifies key leverage points for intervention. The findings provide strategic guidance for policymakers, port authorities, and supply chain stakeholders pursuing digitally enabled sustainable maritime corridors. This study also highlights areas for future empirical validation, particularly in relation to governance integration and cross-border alignment.

Suggested Citation

  • Seyedeh Azadeh Alavi-Borazjani & Alberto Antonio Bengue & Valentina Chkoniya & Muhammad Noman Shafique, 2025. "An Overview of Critical Success Factors for Digital Shipping Corridors: A Roadmap for Maritime Logistics Modernization," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(12), pages 1-34, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:12:p:5537-:d:1680004
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    References listed on IDEAS

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