Abstract The location and layout of container multimodal hubs have received much research attention under the Belt and Road Initiative. To explore the spatial distribution pattern of international container multimodal hubs (ICMHs) and its influencing factors in China, this paper measures the domestic connectivity, international land connectivity, international rail-sea multimodal connectivity and comprehensive connectivity of ICMHs. Spatial analysis methods are used to explore the spatial patterns of ICMH connectivity, and then spatial regression models are applied to detect those key factors that influence its distribution. Results reveal that ICMH connectivity has significant spatial differences and obvious distribution trends across China and that such connectivity gradually decreases from east to west. The significant spatial agglomeration characteristic of connectivity is also highlighted. Specifically, a high connectivity is concentrated in the east and close to exit ports (land exit-ports and seaports), whereas a low connectivity is distributed in the expansive western areas. Results of the spatial regression also show that each factor has significant spatial heterogeneity with respect to connectivity distribution, especially freight turnover volume and investment in transportation. This study provides support for the layout of logistics hubs in multimodal networks and enriches the application of the connectivity method.

    Highlights Spatial patterns of multimodal transport hubs in China was explored. Multiple connectivity indexes of hubs were estimated under the Belt and Road Initiative. A significant spatial disparity and trend distribution of hub connectivity was revealed. Some factors had spatial heterogeneity on the connectivity distribution.


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    Title :

    Connectivity-based spatial patterns and factors influencing international container multimodal hubs in China under the Belt and Road initiative


    Contributors:
    Zhang, Xinfang (author) / Liu, Chengliang (author) / Peng, Yan (author) / Lu, Jing (author)

    Published in:

    Transport Policy ; 143 ; 10-24


    Publication date :

    2023-09-06


    Size :

    15 pages




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English




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