An assessment model of investment environment in free trade port zone-an empirical study on Kaohsiung port

This paper proposes an assessment model of investment environment in free trade port zone (FTPZ). Based on the features of FTZPs and relevant literature, the assessment factors (AFs) of investment environment are first investigated. An assessment model based on an improved analytic network process (IANP) approach is then proposed to evaluate the investment environment in FTPZ from foreign manufacturers' perspectives. Finally, to validate the assessment model, the foreign manufacturers around FTPZ of Kaohsiung port (KP-FTPZ) in Taiwan were empirically investigated, by which some managerial implications and suggestions were proposed. The results could provide practical information for FTPZ managers to improve their FTPZs' investment environments. Further, the proposed IANP approach could also provide theoretical references for methodological research in multi-criteria decision making (MCDM).

Automated summary

This paper proposes an assessment model for investment environment in free trade port zones, utilizing an improved analytic network process approach. Empirical investigation of foreign manufacturers validates the model and offers managerial suggestions to enhance investment environments in FTPZs. The research provides both practical insights for FTPZ managers and theoretical references for MCDM methodological research.