Port's industry ecosystem construction: Empirical evidence from China

• Published in: Transport policy 2025-03, Vol.163, p.42-60
• Main Authors: Zhang, Qiqi, Hu, Xiaozhe, Li, Zhenfu, Zhou, Yutao, Qi, Xinli
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: China; Helix theory; Industrial ecology; Port clusters; Port development
• ISSN: 0967-070X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tranpol.2025.01.005

The Port's Industry Ecosystem (PIDES) is constructed by drawing on the principles of industrial ecology and combining them with the Triple Helix Theory, focusing on the optimal allocation of supporting resources crucial for port development. By interpreting the internal operation mechanisms, external influencing factors, and the functional roles of subsystems, the study provides a theoretical foundation for quantitative research. To promote the deep integration of theory and practice, a methodological framework is developed, incorporating the Six-Helix Comprehensive Evaluation Index (SixHCEI), coupling coordination degree, input-output models, and the natural breakpoint method. Using China as a case study, the research identifies key strategic directions and breakthrough points for the development of PIDES, aiming to provide more targeted support for the sustainable, coordinated development of ports, and offering insights for the formulation of China's "Transport Power" strategy. The specific conclusions are as follows. (1) The scale of China's PIDES exhibits the phenomenon of "coastal areas > Yangtze River basin areas > inland areas." (2) The PIDES in coastal areas are relatively complete, and the scale is positively correlated with the efficiency of conversion into economic benefits. However, 82% of the coastal areas must focus on marine environmental protection when developing PIDES. (3) There is greater potential for PIDES development in the Yangtze River Basin, with Hubei and the Chengdu-Chongqing region identified as key breakthrough areas. Strategic deployment should be prioritized in these regions to promote the sustainable development of inland port economies. •A new approach to port economic development is proposed, focusing on its supporting resources.•A theoretical and methodological framework for constructing the Port's Industry Ecosystem (PIDES) has been established.•The PIDES improvement potential in the Yangtze River Basin is significant, with Hubei and Chengdu-Chongqing as key areas.•82% of coastal areas must pay attention to marine environmental protection when developing PIDES.•Identifying shortcomings and formulating strategies can achieve balanced, sustainable development.