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Examining the Impact of Iranian Port Activities on the Development of Port Cities
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Mohammad Rabiei Nezhad    , Kasra Pourkermani |
| Khorramshahr University of Marine Science and Technology , rnm02815@gmail.com |
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Abstract: (35 Views) |
Background and Theoretical Foundations: Ports are fundamental drivers of maritime-based economic development. In Iran, with access to the Persian Gulf, the Caspian Sea, and the Sea of Oman, ports play a strategic role in connecting domestic production with global markets. However, their contribution to regional growth depends on capacity, infrastructure, and security. This study investigates how port throughput influences regional GDP and examines potential spillover effects on neighboring provinces..
Methodology: The analysis covers 12 major Iranian ports located in Bushehr, Khuzestan, Gilan, Mazandaran, and Sistan & Baluchestan during 1991–2021, with 372 annual observations. Data were collected from national economic and maritime institutions. A Spatial Durbin Model with regional fixed effects was employed to estimate both direct and indirect impacts of port throughput. Control variables included economic activity density, financial conditions, accessibility, highway length, and GDP lag.
Findings: Results show that port throughput has a positive and significant effect on regional GDP, with direct elasticity between 0.0022 and 0.0025. A 10 percent increase in throughput raises GDP by 0.022–0.025 percent. Spillover effects were also significant (0.0026–0.0029), reflecting benefits to neighboring provinces. Control variables such as infrastructure and economic activity further supported growth. In contrast, maritime piracy exerted a negative influence (–0.0020 to –0.0021), particularly affecting Chabahar Port..
Conclusion: Ports are confirmed as essential engines of Iran’s regional economic growth. Enhancing port capacity and infrastructure can yield substantial economic benefits, while improved security is critical to mitigate piracy’s negative impact. Policymakers are advised to prioritize port investment and security as prerequisites for sustainable coastal development. |
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| Keywords: Iranian ports, port cities, urban economy, employment in coastal cities |
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Type of Study: Research/ Original/ Regular Article |
Subject:
Maritime Engineering & Transportation
Received: 2025/08/24 | Revised: 2026/05/3 | Accepted: 2026/03/6
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