Comprehensive evaluation index system and method for world-class ports

To improve the comprehensive evaluation system of ports and move beyond the single evaluation mode of "throughput only," this study investigates a comprehensive evaluation index system for world-class ports. Firstly, the concept and connotation of world-class ports are interpreted using the "Theme-Objective-Path-Service" analysis framework. A comprehensive evaluation index system for world-class ports is proposed, centered around weighted throughput, ship service efficiency, connectivity, economic contribution, and green and security levels. The index weights are determined using the Analytic Hierarchy Process, and a fuzzy comprehensive evaluation model for world-class ports is established. Based on this model, 34 global sample ports are selected for comprehensive evaluation. The evaluation results show that the ports of Singapore and Shanghai rank among the top two in terms of comprehensive scores, placing them in the world's leading lineup. Nine other ports, including Rotterdam, Ningbo-Zhoushan, Busan, and Qingdao, rank among the top ports globally with scores above 80. Finally, suggestions for conducting comprehensive evaluations of world-class ports are proposed, focusing on establishing world-class port evaluation standards and strengthening the application of big data from the Automatic Identification System (AIS).