Are Spanish ports efficient and profitable? A quantitative analysis

Abstract

[Abstract] The goal of this study is to analyse the efficiency and profitability performance of Spanish ports of general interest over the 2011–2018 period. The approaches adopted so far do not include both variables. It is based on our own original methodology, defining and calculating different ratios for each port and its clusters according to size, geographical location and cargo specialisation. The paper culminates in relevant findings in terms of the qualitative nuances involved in identifying the most efficient and profitable groups of Spanish Port Authorities, which will be of value to policy makers.