Increased collaborative relationships in international logistics: Canadian and other national and corporate examples

Abstract

This article argues that the increased competition and uncertainties faced by corporations and countries as a result of the globalisation and volatility of world trade in the first decade of this century have resulted in new collaborative relationships in international logistics. Evidence, largely from Canada, identifies shifts in corporate relationships. The changes are consistent with expectations derived from Williamson’s economics of governance. Relationships between negotiating firms involve greater collaboration to enhance mutual gains in face of more dynamic and uncertain conditions.

Acknowledgement

Based on a paper at the First Annual International Workshop on Port Economics, National University, Singapore, December 2011.