Location analysis of logistics centres in Laos

There have been many efforts to improve intermodal transport connectivity in South-East Asia. Strategic location of logistics centres can facilitate transportation, handling, storage and transshipment of goods moving in international trade. This paper considers various evaluation criteria for location analysis of logistics centres. The paper utilises the analytic hierarchy process and goal programming methodologies to analyse location of logistics centres in Laos, which aims to transform itself into a land-linked country from a land-locked country. Location models are developed based on primary data collected from public and private sector transport stakeholders. The results show similarity in final priority ranking of planned logistics centres. Also, the outcomes of both methodologies are consistent. However, some differences on the weights of the evaluation criteria were noted for the public sector, private sector and combined models. Finally, some policy considerations are offered for development of logistics centres and seamless flow of intermodal freight transport.