Centrality and vulnerability in liner shipping networks: revisiting the Northeast Asian port hierarchy

Abstract

This article is essentially an empirical investigation in the network analysis of inter-port traffic flows. Based on a database of vessel movements, it applies conventional techniques of network analysis to the graph of Northeast Asian liner networks in 1996 and 2006. Such an approach proves particularly helpful for analyzing the changing position of major hub ports and for revealing their respective tributary areas within the region. Despite rapid traffic growth at Chinese ports during the period under study, the latter seem to remain polarized by established hubs such as Korean ports and Hong Kong. This research reveals the strong relation between local port policies and the evolution of shipping network design.

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank the anonymous reviewers for their useful comments on an earlier version of this article. Thanks also go to Ms. Joey Wong, Administrative Editor of the journal, for her efficient support during the evaluation process. This research has benefited financial support from Marie Curie fellowship (EIF-FP6) and reintegration grant (ERG).