Blockchain Digital Transformation: Enhancing Port Efficiency and Competitiveness in Egyptian Maritime Logistics

Tamer Fathi Seif El Nasr Hassan Soliman (1), Alessandro Farina (2)

DOI NO. https://doi.org/10.59660/52721 Received 20/08/2025, Revised 01/10/2025, Acceptance 10/11/2025, Available online and Published 01/07/2026

Abstract

This paper explores the potential of blockchain technology within the Egyptian port sector, emphasizing its role in enhancing digital capability, operational agility, and stakeholder trust. While global ports such as Rotterdam, Singapore, Valencia, and Los Angeles have demonstrated the effectiveness of blockchain in streamlining maritime logistics, Egyptian ports remain hindered by legacy systems, regulatory uncertainties, financial constraints, and institutional resistance. Through a combination of stakeholder surveys and analysis of international case studies, this research offers a comprehensive assessment of the digital maturity of key Egyptian ports such as Alexandria, Port Said, Damietta, and Sokhna, and identifies critical bottlenecks and strategic opportunities for blockchain deployment.

The findings affirm that blockchain adoption is not only feasible but essential for Egypt to enhance its logistics performance, assert regional leadership in digital trade facilitation, and leverage its strategic position along the Suez Canal. The study concludes that blockchain should be regarded not merely as an efficiency tool, but as a foundational enabler of trust, transparency, and digital sovereignty in port operations.

Based on these insights, Egypt can modernize its ports into 5^th generation digital trade gateways, offering a scalable model for other nations in the Global South the paper proposes a phased, actionable roadmap emphasizing legal reform, standardized interoperability frameworks, pilot expansion, strengthened public private collaboration, and comprehensive capacity building. Aligning blockchain adoption with national digital strategy objectives can transform isolated pilots into a unified platform that improves port operations, attracts investment, and fosters sustainable growth in Egypt’s maritime logistics sector.

Impacts of Work Stress on Crew Fatigue and Maritime Safety concerning Hazardous Cargo Operations – A comprehensive Review

Alaa Mohamed Elsayed Ammar (1),  Artemisa Cristina Gomes Neves Mota (2)

DOI NO. https://doi.org/10.59660/52722 Received 05/09/2025, Revised 20/10/2025, Acceptance 01/12/2025, Available online and Published 01/07/2026

Abstract

As far as fatigue is concerned, which is especially important for the well-being of seafarers transporting dangerous goods, is a phenomenon which only consists of a group of numerous stress-related aspects. Clearly, every one of these negative outcomes results in a diminished level of one’s cognitive alertness, thus endangering the operational outcomes which ought to be achieved by employees in the marine transport sector. Thus, this study attempts to analyze, systematize and summarize the results of 56 studies, global regulatory frameworks, and specific industry publications. Structurally, this study focuses on creating a theoretical basis of a certain quality which would be able to outline the principal components of fatigue of the players of this thorny industry. It consists of theoretical and practical components as well as theory testing, in order to identify the key components of practical value and the best correlational frameworks to help reduce the negative effects of this phenomenon. The study suggests practical ways to counter fatigue, using biometric FRMS, culturally appropriate mental health care, and targeted psychological support. Finally, to prevent excessive regulatory burdens and support evidence-based policy adaptability, this study advocates for the maritime industry to establish a standard of classification pertaining to stress and fatigue.

An integrated analysis of key factors causing fires in high-tier containers on Ultra-Large Container Vessels

Alaa Mohamed Elsayed Ammar (1), Amr Moneer Ibrahim (2), Hesham Helal (3),  Daniele Conte (4)

DOI NO. https://doi.org/10.59660/52723 Received 08/08/2025, Revised 02/10/2025, Acceptance 25/11/2025, Available online and Published 01/07/2026

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to determine the reasoning behind the human factor, the lack of declaration of dangerous goods, the lack of a sophisticated fire detection system, the primary causes of fire outbreaks on high-tier stowed containers on Ultra Large container vessels (ULCVs), and potential answers: fire prevention and fire mitigation. The researcher employed descriptive-analytical techniques and developed a survey distributed to seafarers. 156 responses qualified. They were processed using SPSS v26. The researcher brought to light the most impactful of which were human factors, fire detecting infrastructure, and lack of declared dangerous cargo. It is recommended in this research that more sophisticated fire prevention systems should be in place, more stringent regulations on fire-hazardous cargo should be implemented, and that fire risk mitigation training should be implemented on the part of the crew. This research is disseminated to ship operators, the fire safety practices regulatory and stakeholders in the maritime transport sector to enhance fire safety practices and protect life, cargo, and the marine environment.

Reducing Marine Oil Pollution through International Regulation: An Empirical Assessment of MARPOL Annex I Enforcement in Egypt

Ahmed Raafat (1),  Anthony C Cuevas (2)

DOI NO. https://doi.org/10.59660/52724 Received 15/11/2025, Revised 27/12/2025, Acceptance 14/02/2026, Available online and Published 01/07/2026

Abstract

Oil pollution from ship activities still constitutes a pressing concern for the Egyptian environment and waterways. This research examines whether the effectiveness of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) Annex I in Egypt is linked to improved oil pollution outcomes and seeks to uncover institutional mechanisms influencing the effectiveness of implementation. A convergent mixed-methods approach combines national time-series analysis of reported spill outcomes (1990-2023) with segmented (interrupted) time-series reasoning around critical implementation milestones, multivariate analysis associating spill outcomes with enforcement-related factors (inspection activity, enforcement follow-through, and reception capacity availability), geographic information system hotspot mapping with kernel density estimation in 33 port/coastal regions, and thematic analysis of 25 semi-structured interviews with relevant authorities. Across all strands, results support better outcomes in later stages of implementation compared to earlier stages, with greater success when enforcement cycles and reception infrastructure are practically accessible.

Spatial analysis indicates persistent higher-risk corridors and port-approach zones, supporting a risk-based interpretation of enforcement and monitoring needs. Interview evidence emphasizes the importance of role clarity and inter-agency coordination, technical and human capacity, enforcement credibility, and information systems for detection and follow-up. The study recommends strengthening integrated enforcement–infrastructure–information pathways, institutionalizing hotspot-informed inspection targeting, standardizing inter-agency incident reporting and data integration, and prioritizing capacity building in high-risk and resource-constrained locations to further reduce ship-source oil pollution in Egypt.

Evaluating Maritime Crew Knowledge of Shipping-Related GHG Impacts on the Climate System’s Equilibrium

Adham Sayed Mohamed Torky (1), Agne Jucyte Cicine (2)

DOI NO. https://doi.org/10.59660/52725 Received 02/02/2026, Revised 01/03/2026, Acceptance 02/04/2026, Available online and Published 01/07/2026

Abstract

This research study aims to evaluate marine officers’ and engineers’ knowledge of the influence of greenhouse gas (GHG) emission in maritime shipping on the balance of the climate system.

This study uses three methods to statistically analyze the study data, which are the Chi-Square Test, the Wilcoxon One-Sample Test, and the Fisher-Freeman-Halton Exact Test. A questionnaire was used as the main method of data collection in this investigation. The sample was available with 101 marine officers and engineers.

The study results indicate the extent of knowledge and awareness among participants that maritime transport contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, which play a major role in climate change.

This study clarifies the importance of integrating the issue of climate change into the maritime curricula of various maritime academies. in addition to cooperation between the various responsible parties, represented by governments, international organizations, and decision-makers in the maritime field, to promote professional and societal participation in technologies that help mitigate emissions and adapt to climate change, which has become an international issue.

Assessing the Impact of Automating the Operational Processes on Enhancing the Efficiency and the Competitiveness of Khalifa Port

Hazzaa Aljneibi (1), Hesham Helal (2), Mohamed Elkersh (3), Dragomir Cristina (4)

DOI NO. https://doi.org/10.59660/52726 Received 04/11/2025, Revised 16/12/2025, Acceptance 23/02/2026, Available online and Published 01/07/2026

Abstract

This study sets out to examine the effects of automation of operational process streams on operational efficiency and competitiveness improvement at Khalifa Port using a strategy, operations, commerce and service integration analytical framework. The study uses a qualitative methodology to geopolitically capture the perceptions of Digital Transformation (DT) and automation of operational process streams to enhance institutional performance through the lens of the Port employees strategically positioned at the apex of the organization and at the levels of strategy, project management, business development, customer service and commerce. The study establishes a near consensus on DT and operational process automation as key to enhancing operational efficiency, including, but not limited to, increased operational productivity, reduced operational cycle times, and improved resource productivity vis-a-vis unit operational cost reduction, increased service reliability and enhanced customer service experience. The study establishes automation’s shift of the Port’s operational strategy through the improvement of the Port’s capabilities on data driven decision making, increased place/space resilience in the face of disruptive change, and in the improvement of the Port’s competitiveness and operational efficiency on the global market. The study also identifies the challenges of system integration, change management, and the upskilling of the workforce, to underscore that the successful operationalization of automation is more than a technological solution within a system, but is also a function of the organization’s posture. The research helps address a gap in the literature by providing a multifaceted analysis of the connections between the outcomes of automation applications and institutions, as well as offering explanatory principles that may direct future research on smart ports and sustainable competitiveness.

Port State Control Memorandums of Understanding: The Opportunity of An Integrated Regional Regime

Haytham Mounir Chaaban (1), Sameh Farahat (2), Mohammed Elwakil (3)

DOI NO. https://doi.org/10.59660/52727 Received 05/02/2026, Revised 15/03/2026, Acceptance 29/04/2026, Available online and Published 01/07/2026

Abstract

This study examines the degree of harmonization between the Paris Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control (Paris MoU) and the Mediterranean Memorandum of Understanding (Med MoU) as they relate to the International Maritime Organization and the International Labor Organization (IMO/ILO). Even though both agreements were developed from the same international instruments, they are applied differently in each jurisdiction; therefore, the way each jurisdiction applies them results in an unequal level of predictability and credibility when enforced.

The research study employed a mixed methods methodology to gather data and respond to the research questions from an evidence based data analysis methodology. The authors analyzed the data using two forms of data analysis: a quantitative analysis of 2021-2022 last MOU official statistics (documentary) and a thematic analysis of open ended questionnaire responses from 122 PSC professional participants; this created the data set used to answer the study objective. Of interest is the difference in the number of inspections performed and the number of enforcement actions taken from those inspections. For instance, the Paris MoU inspection numbers ranged from a high of 17,289 inspections to a low of 15,401 inspections conducted between 2021 to 2023, with the average detention rates per inspection between 3.49% and 4.18%. In comparison; the Mediterranean MOU’s numbers of inspections were a low of 4,954 inspections to a high of 6,132 inspections conducted over the same three years’ timeframe, with average detention rates per inspection between 2.12% – 2.60%. In addition to the discrepancies in numbers of inspections performed and types of enforcement actions taken, the findings also indicate differences in deficiency profiles and enforcement focus between MoUs related to their potential definitions of deficiencies caused by SOLAS fire protection, structural integrity, and others (i.e. documentation, navigation, and safety). The interview data also indicated that there are five recurring issues with the continuing fragmentation of the PSC system. These include: (1) A lack of competence or training for the PSCO; (2) a need for procedural harmonization, (3) the status of digital technologies (THETIS versus THETIS-Med), (4) fairness in the inspection process, and (5) legal/institution fragmentation.

A phased plan for integrating and unifying varying regulation types consists of a standard series of deficiency coding; a clearly defined scope of conventions to be adhered to; shared performance indicators and the provision of capacity building programs utilizing interoperability of digital technology networks will be created. Additionally, the Phased Approach outlines a series of steps that can be taken in order to assist with global convergence which also includes the creation of common data standards for aligning MoUs to each other and mutual recognition of inspection results and the periodic calibrated inspections as well as concentrated campaigns. Some of the major areas of concern that have been identified that will be integral in achieving these objectives as part of the roadmap are as follows: (1) creating a centralized regional database of banned ships; (2) standardizing technical training for Port State Control officers; (3) identifying innovative digital methods to reduce the disparity between methods of enforcement for both types of regimes; and (4) eliminating the ability for substandard vessels to utilize “safe havens” to conduct their operations without requiring an immediate merging of the MoUs.

دور الخصخصة في رفع كفاءة وتنافسية ميناء جدة الإسلامي

بدر بهيشان نايف البصيص المطيري (1)، هشام هلال (2)، محمد الكسار (3)

DOI NO. https://doi.org/10.59660/52728 Received 13/08/2025, Revised 28/09/2025, Acceptance 20/11/2025, Available online and Published 01/07/2026

المستخلص

هدف البحث إلى استقصاء دور الخصخصة في رفع كفاءة وتنافسية ميناء جدة الإسلامي، باعتباره أحد أهم الموانئ المحورية في المملكة العربية السعودية وواجهة رئيسة لتحقيق مستهدفات رؤية السعودية 2030 في قطاع النقل والخدمات اللوجستية. تأتي الخصخصة كأحد المحركات الرئيسة للتحول في القطاع البحري، بهدف تعزيز الأداء التشغيلي، وتحسين جودة الخدمات، وزيادة القدرة التنافسية في مواجهة الموانئ الإقليمية والعالمية.

اعتمدت الدراسة على منهج نوعي مدعوم بتحليل كمي تفسيري، من خلال إجراء مقابلات شخصية شبه موجهة مع عدد (4) من المسؤولين التنفيذيين في إدارات مختلفة داخل الميناء (الخدمات المساندة، الأعمال التجارية، مشاريع البنية التحتية والصيانة، العمليات التشغيلية). تم تحليل بيانات المقابلات باستخدام منهج التحليل الموضوعي الكمي الذي يتيح تحويل الموضوعات المستخلصة إلى متغيرات قابلة للترميز، ثم بناء مصفوفة ترميز ثنائية وتحليل نسب التغطية والتكرار الموضوعي بهدف تحديد مجالات الإجماع والتباين بين الإدارات المختلفة.

أظهرت النتائج أن هناك توافقًا مؤسسيًا قويًا حول اعتبار الخصخصة مدخلًا رئيسًا لتعزيز التحول الرقمي، والتشغيل المبني على الأداء، وتحسين مؤشرات الإنتاجية التشغيلية (زمن انتظار السفن، سرعة المناولة، الطاقة الاستيعابية). كما أكدت النتائج ضرورة تطوير الإطار التشريعي لتحقيق مرونة تنظيمية، وإعادة توزيع الصلاحيات عبر نموذج حوكمة احترافي، وتحويل دور الجهة الحكومية من التشغيل المباشر إلى الإشراف والمراقبة، إضافة إلى استقطاب الشراكات الاستثمارية والاستفادة من التجارب الدولية الناجحة. كما برزت الحاجة إلى تكامل الميناء مع منظومات النقل البري والسككي لضمان كفاءة سلسلة الإمداد ورفع القدرة التنافسية إقليميًا.

نموذج تنبؤي لإنتاجية محطة حاويات ميناء عدن (ACT) اعتمادًا على الشبكات العصبية الاصطناعية وتحليل المؤشرات التشغيلية

محمد علوي أمزربه(1)، هشام هلال (2)، إيمان فاروق الحداد (3)

DOI NO. https://doi.org/10.59660/52729 Received 01/05/2025, Revised 25/09/2025, Acceptance 12/01/2026, Available online and Published 01/07/2026

المستخلص

يهدف هذا البحث إلى تطوير نموذج تنبؤي كمي متقدم لقياس وتحليل إنتاجية محطة عدن للحاويات، من خلال توظيف الشبكات العصبية الاصطناعية (ANN) لقياس أثر تطبيق نظام تشغيل المحطات (TOS) والعوامل الزمنية والموسمية على مجموعة من المؤشرات التشغيلية الرئيسة. اعتمدت الدراسة على المنهج الكمي التحليلي، حيث جُمعت بيانات تشغيلية فعلية لفترة زمنية ممتدة قبل وبعد تطبيق النظام، وتمت معالجتها وتطبيعها وبناؤها ضمن نموذج شبكة عصبية متعددة الطبقات باستخدام خوارزمية
 Rprop+، مع تقييم دقة التنبؤ عبر مؤشرات R² وRMSE وMAE . أظهرت النتائج تفوق النماذج التنبؤية في تفسير والتنبؤ بثلاثة مؤشرات رئيسة هي تكلفة مناولة الحاويات (R² = 0.980)، وعدد الحاويات المتداولة (R² = 0.935)، وعدد السفن المترددة (R² = 0.721)، في حين حققت بقية المؤشرات مستويات أداء متوسطة إلى ضعيفة، مما يعكس اختلاف درجة تعقيد العوامل المؤثرة عليها. كما بيّن تحليل أهمية المتغيرات أن عامل الزمن كان الأكثر تأثيرًا، يليه تطبيق نظام  TOS، مما يؤكد الأثر الإيجابي للتحول الرقمي على الأداء التشغيلي للمحطة. ويوصي البحث بضرورة توسيع استخدام النماذج التنبؤية المعتمدة على الذكاء الاصطناعي في التخطيط التشغيلي، وتعزيز تكامل نظام TOS مع الجهات ذات العلاقة، وتحديث معدات المناولة، وإنشاء وحدة متخصصة لتحليل البيانات التشغيلية، بما يسهم في رفع الكفاءة، وتحسين جودة القرار، وتعزيز القدرة التنافسية لمحطة عدن للحاويات.

دور الخصخصة في تطوير الموانئ السعودية: التحليل الرباعي  لميناء جدة الإسلامي

بدر بهيشان نايف البصيص المطيري (1)، هشام هلال (2)، محمد الكسار (3)

DOI NO. https://doi.org/10.59660/527210 Received 03/09/2025, Revised 10/10/2025, Acceptance 14/12/2025, Available online and Published 01/07/2026

المستخلص

يُعد تحليل البيئة الداخلية والخارجية لميناء جدة الإسلامي خطوة أساسية لفهم مدى جاهزيته للتحول نحو الخصخصة، ولا سيما في ظل توجه المملكة لتعزيز كفاءة الموانئ ورفع قدرتها التنافسية ضمن مستهدفات رؤية السعودية 2030. يهدف هذا البحث إلى تحليل أثر الخصخصة في تطوير كفاءة وتنافسية الموانئ السعودية من خلال تطبيق منهج التحليل الرباعي (SWOT) على ميناء جدة الإسلامي وتحديد عناصر القوة والضعف والفرص والتهديدات التي تشكّل إطارًا استراتيجيًا داعمًا لصنع القرار في مسار الخصخصة.

استنتج البحث من آراء المشاركين على أن الخصخصة تمثل فرصة استراتيجية لتعزيز القدرة التنافسية للميناء إقليميًا ودوليًا من خلال استقطاب الاستثمارات المحلية والأجنبية، وخاصة من شركات تشغيل الموانئ العالمية ذات الخبرة في إدارة العمليات والخدمات ذات القيمة المضافة. ويوصي البحث بضرورة الاستثمار الاستراتيجي في نقاط القوة التي يتمتع بها ميناء جدة الإسلامي، وعلى رأسها موقعه الجغرافي المحوري وبنيته التحتية المتطورة، من خلال توجيه هذه المقومات نحو تعزيز جاهزية الميناء لنماذج تشغيل حديثة تعتمد على الشراكات مع القطاع الخاص.