Dynamic regional port cluster development: case of the ports across Taiwan Strait.

The term 'cluster' is defined as a regional concentration of related economic activities and the concept has been embraced by many scientists and regional policy makers. However, little research has been done for fast-growing port clusters in Asia. The geographical focus of this study is the ports across the Taiwan Strait which is a seldom investigated area in cluster research. This study aims to develop an institutional framework to analyse the interactions and coordination among key port cluster actors with respect to the internal and external environment, and further identify the role policy plays in being a main driver for cluster evolution. We employ a case study approach in the research. Ports along the Taiwan Strait have access to abundant resources and possess strategic locations, as well as broad market bases including Mainland China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. Taiwan ports have advanced infrastructure and information technology management systems, while Fujian ports are rich in resources and have access to the vast mainland hinterland. They have complementary advantages and the formation of a port cluster across Taiwan Strait could improve the market competitiveness of both. Thus, the efficient governance and integration of such a port cluster has practical significance. This paper provides specific suggestions to the policy makers across the Taiwan Strait with regards to a unified path of development for the port and logistics industry for Fujian Province of China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]