The Exploration of Smart Port Concept to Improve Efficiency and Productivity of the Port: Case study Port Elizabeth

Ndoda, Vuyolwethu and Mndzebele, Mhlalisi Gavu and Mbinza, Zenzile (2025) The Exploration of Smart Port Concept to Improve Efficiency and Productivity of the Port: Case study Port Elizabeth. URBAN INNOVATION: TO BOLDLY GO WHERE NO CITIES HAVE GONE BEFORE. Medium sized cities and towns as a major arena of global urbanisation. Proceedings of REAL CORP 2025, 30th Intl. Conference on Urban Development, Regional Planning and Information Society. pp. 907-916. ISSN 2521-3938

Text (The Exploration of Smart Port Concept to Improve Efficiency and Productivity of the Port: Case study Port Elizabeth) CORP2025_25.pdf - Published Version Download (412kB)

Abstract

The aspect of transitioning traditional port operations into a smart port is more than just not merely a technological improvement; it is considered as a contingency plan that addresses the various challenges faced by South African ports in a rapidly evolving global trade environment. This research paper stresses that the adoption of smart port concepts is essential for enhancing operational efficiency, reducing congestion, and fostering economic growth. The concept of integrating advanced technologies that encompass automation, the Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics,allows the Port of Port Elizabeth to overcome the current challenges associated with the old infrastructure and inefficient methods. This study argues that even though smart port concept is a vehicle for the port that drives productivity and sustainability at the port of Port Elizabeth, there are concerns regarding job losses due to a lack of skilled labour force and this can be addressed through upskilling of the workforce. The successful transition of this port into a smart port model requires not only focusing on the technological investment but also considering the policy frameworks that prioritize human capital development to successfully implement automation. There has been a tremendous increase in global growth port competition and changing maritime dynamics, and this research paper intends to evaluate the potential benefits as well as the challenges of adopting the concept of smart port at the Port of Port Elizabeth. The ultimate goal is to contribute to the broader discourse on the strategic ways in which South African ports can provide for future development, as well as the requirement for inclusive socioeconomic and sustainability. The Port of Port Elizabeth is facing critical challenges, including outdated infrastructure, poor maintenance practices, and logistical bottlenecks, which have resulted in inefficiencies, long turnaround times, and reduced competitiveness in global trade. These issues threaten the port's ability to support South Africa's economic growth. This study was motivated by the urgent need to modernize the port's operations and explores the adoption of smart port concepts as a solution. The paper argues that transitioning to smart technologies, such as automation and data-driven decision-making, is essential to address these challenges, improve productivity, and position the port as a key player in the global maritime industry.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Smart port, Port development framework plan, Efficiency, Productivity, Intelligent infrastructure
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HB Economic Theory T Technology > TA Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General)
Depositing User:	The CORP Team
Date Deposited:	24 May 2025 13:59
Last Modified:	07 Jul 2025 10:28
URI:	http://repository.corp.at/id/eprint/1221

Actions (login required)

View Item