Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed t o e stablish strategies for strengthening t ransport networks in the Asia-Pacific region and select countries for support to improve port and logistics infrastructure. Research design, data, and methodology: Cluster analysis was used to select the target countries for support. The analysis was based on 15 variables, including GDP, economic growth, population, import and export growth, tariff rates, import tax rates, and container volumes, derived from literature studies of 53 UN ESCAP member countries. Cluster analysis was performed using a primary cluster analysis utilizing the quantitative variables and a secondary cluster analysis with qualitative variables. Results: The analysis identified 10 countries (Kiribati, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Palau, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, and Vanuatu) as candidates for support. For each of the 10 selected countries, 10 support projects were proposed, considering the current status of shipping and ports in the country and national infrastructure development plans. Conclusions: The smooth progress of a project requires a consideration of the form and type of ODA support, support port facilities that can handle various cargo, and propose solutions to the problem of volume generation.