Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts covered in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on the theory and practice of integrating seaport gateways and associated trade corridors into global value chains, taking into account the current world economic condition. It focuses on global economic change, including the sources and implications of current economic conditions, as well as other longer term changes in the global economy and the maritime shipping industry for ports, corridors and value chains. The book presents international case studies of seaport gateways and corridors, three focused on Canada, one each on Africa, Europe and China. On the recent Canadian experience, Guy and Lapointe consider what engages different stakeholders in policy processes designed to improve gateway and corridor performance. The book addresses a traditional concern of port-hinterland relationships: that of physical connectedness.