Benchmarking Efficiency in Mediterranean Ports: A DEA-Based Analysis of Connectivity and Operational Performance

Chariton Tsakalidis, Eirini Liani, George Tsakalidis, Kostas Vergidis, Michael Madas

2025

Abstract

This study investigates the operational performance of major Mediterranean ports through a tailored Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) framework. Recognizing the underrepresentation of these ports in existing benchmarking studies, this research emphasizes both connectivity and efficiency. Utilizing advanced DEA methodologies—Constant Returns to Scale (CCR), Variable Returns to Scale (BCC) and Window Analysis—the study evaluates efficiency trends over time, providing actionable insights for enhancement. Key input variables such as terminal size, berth length and equipment count are analyzed alongside output metrics like annual container throughput to ensure a comprehensive assessment of port performance. The findings reveal significant efficiency disparities among Mediterranean ports, with transshipment hubs like Tanger Med and Piraeus achieving optimal efficiency scores due to strategic investments and infrastructure upgrades. Conversely, many ports operate below optimal levels, indicating opportunities for technical and managerial improvements. This research contributes substantially to the field by introducing a novel benchmarking framework tailored to the unique geopolitical dynamics of the Mediterranean region. It highlights the critical role of connectivity, infrastructure and technology in driving efficiency while offering a valuable foundation for policymakers and port authorities to implement targeted strategies that enhance competitiveness and foster sustainable growth.

Paper Citation

in Harvard Style

Tsakalidis C., Liani E., Tsakalidis G., Vergidis K. and Madas M. (2025). Benchmarking Efficiency in Mediterranean Ports: A DEA-Based Analysis of Connectivity and Operational Performance. In Proceedings of the 27th International Conference on Enterprise Information Systems - Volume 2: ICEIS; ISBN 978-989-758-749-8, SciTePress, pages 837-844. DOI: 10.5220/0013284600003929

in Bibtex Style

@conference{iceis25,
author={Chariton Tsakalidis and Eirini Liani and George Tsakalidis and Kostas Vergidis and Michael Madas},
title={Benchmarking Efficiency in Mediterranean Ports: A DEA-Based Analysis of Connectivity and Operational Performance},
booktitle={Proceedings of the 27th International Conference on Enterprise Information Systems - Volume 2: ICEIS},
year={2025},
pages={837-844},
publisher={SciTePress},
organization={INSTICC},
doi={10.5220/0013284600003929},
isbn={978-989-758-749-8},
}

in EndNote Style

TY - CONF

JO - Proceedings of the 27th International Conference on Enterprise Information Systems - Volume 2: ICEIS
TI - Benchmarking Efficiency in Mediterranean Ports: A DEA-Based Analysis of Connectivity and Operational Performance
SN - 978-989-758-749-8
AU - Tsakalidis C.
AU - Liani E.
AU - Tsakalidis G.
AU - Vergidis K.
AU - Madas M.
PY - 2025
SP - 837
EP - 844
DO - 10.5220/0013284600003929
PB - SciTePress