THE LOGISTICAL ASSETS THAT PREDISPOSE THE PORT OF COTONOU TO SERVE THE INTERNATIONAL HINTERLAND

Abstract

Port and maritime activities are developing worldwide. Globalisation is making the logistics supply network more complex by emphasising the important role of distribution and transport in enhancing the market value of products. Efficient logistics activities are essential for the proper functioning of ports on the West African shore. As a hub of international trade for the WAEMU hinterland countries (Burkina-Faso, Mali, and Niger), the port of Cotonou, in a highly competitive international trade development environment, feels the need to make itself more competitive to acquire new market shares. The objective of this research paper is to determine the logistical assets that predispose the port of Cotonou to serve the international hinterland. For this paper, documentary research, direct observation and field surveys are the techniques used to collect the data. The questionnaire addressed to economic operators and concessionary port operators. Thus, two hundred and ninety-five (295) socio-professional actors of the port and maritime domain were surveyed. The results obtained showed that the quality of services offered by the port of Cotonou is judged good by most of the economic actors questioned (consignees (83.4%) and shippers (80%)). However, a fair assessment was widely shared by freight forwarders (52%). The study reveals that all categories of freight forwarders operating on the Cotonou port platform surveyed consider that handling efficiency (80%) remains the indicator that determines the choice of the port of Cotonou. Similarly,for the last five years, the quality of logistics services in the port of Cotonou has been judged as good by more than 50% of economic operators.