ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the influence of the statist approach to port management is fading out today in most parts of the world. Its problem is in limiting port management autonomy at a time when ports are expected to become new-business developers and compete for traffic internationally. A statist approach to port management reduces port authorities to mere administrators, and if this is the objective of the State, then it should be spelled out clearly in the relevant port laws, rather than expecting ports to function under commercial management principles, often with financial targets imposed on them. The improvement of port management and administration within the current organisational structure and without changes in law or national policy can be seen as a first option of port reform. To enhance the possibilities of survival in a competitive environment, the government can improve the institutional environment of the port, thereby enhancing its ability to respond adequately and promptly to the changing market conditions.
