A Strategic Positioning Analysis for Container Terminals in Northern Vietnam

Vietnam is one of Asia’s fastest developing economies. A long coastline of nearly 3,500 km provides a comparative advantage for Vietnam in developing a seaport system. Despite accounting for only about 30% of Vietnam’s traffic volume, the Northern seaports have rapidly developed over the years. However, the location of the container terminals close to the common hinterland are a cause of fierce competition among container terminals. To outperform rivals and improve competitiveness, it is essential to identify the competitive positions of container terminals. This study analyzes the competitive positioning of container terminals in the northern region of Vietnam between 2005 and 2014 by applying the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) matrix in order to assist terminal operators and policy makers to generate strategic planning as well as to improve priorities for development. Otherwise, the period from 2005-2014 aims to clarify the static and dynamic positioning of container terminals. The results demonstrate that the Hai Phong terminal dominates the market, but the Nam Hai Dinh Vu and Dinh Vu terminals are considered as “star” performers. Quang Ninh, Doan Xa, and Transvina are losing their competitive positions in Northern Vietnam.