Influence of Congestion Efficiency on the European Seaports Performance: Does It Matter?

Abstract

The increase in cargo transportation has not necessarily corresponded to an improvement in the productive efficiency. Quite on the contrary, particular infrastructures are prone to the congestion phenomenon. In this case, after a given value the increase in inputs can lead to a decrease in outputs. The purpose of this study, based on data envelopment analysis, is twofold. First, it aims to account for the importance of congestion in European seaports. Second, it intends to compare different alternatives to determine this kind of inefficiency. The results show considerable signs of congestion in some European seaports.

Acknowledgments

We are indebted to three anonymous referees for their extremely helpful comments and suggestions and to Tony Flegg for his help in the computation of Tone and Sahoo model. The usual disclaimer applies.