ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on the importance and development of the shipping industry in Turkey during the early and mid 1990s, a period of significance for the industry. It looks at the ports of Turkey, and that of Mersin in particular, in terms of its development as a centre and stimulus for regional activity, examines its feeder activity in the container market place. The book turns to the important shipbuilding markets in Turkey and the impact of technological developments. It examines the importance of the Caspian Sea oil industry and the growth of exports. The book analyses the role of liner agents in port service quality from the point of view of the container. It covers the issues which are emerging from the continued privatisation of major ports in Turkey and the difficulties and opportunities that are being faced as this process continues.
