Critical evaluation of Mandalay dry port, Myanmar

Paper in proceeding, 2013

Purpose: In the UNESCAP Intergovernmental Agreement on dry ports the Government of Myanmar has nominated Mandalay as a potential site. A critical evaluation of this dry port concept is undertaken. Additional policies are investigated to support the implementation of this dry port. Design/methodology/approach: A summary of the success factors in the planning and operation of dry ports based on international literature is presented. Supporting policies are identified including special economic zones (SEZ). Data collection from stakeholders is conducted through interviews in Myanmar in 2012-13. A qualitative assessment of the Mandalay dry port location is made based on success factors, supporting polices and findings from the interviews. Findings: The ASEAN Master Plan for Connectivity necessitates streamlining sectoral strategies with reference to multimodal transport systems and dry ports in order to enhance intra- and extra-ASEAN connectivity. A Roadmap for the Integration of Logistics Services was endorsed in August 2008 to strengthen ASEAN as a single market and to enhance its competitiveness through trade and transport facilitation. Major transport corridors must be integrated with economic development corridors that can be supported by the planning processes for successful dry ports and special economic zones (especially the strategic and master planning exercises to be undertaken by governments). Originality/value: By taking an integrated, cross-sectoral approach to the planning of freight transport, logistics and land use the paper identifies the success characteristics to minimise risk to both public and private sectors with dry port development.