PORT CONSTRUCTION RECENT TRENDS IN PROCUREMENT

摘要

The author read an article recently for which this was the headline caption; it is quite remarkable to consider that it is only relatively recently that ports have been recognised as being a vital link in supply chains. No one could argue that ports have not always been an important link in the movement of goods or transport chain. However, the use of the term 'supply chain' reflects the significance that many businesses now place on the shipment of raw materials and end products. A recent report by shipping consultants forecast a 65% increase in global container traffic between 1998 and 2005. It went on to suggest that, to accommodate this growth, investment of some $20 to 30 billion will be required in civil works and equipment. All of this against a backdrop of recession in the Far East and South-East Asia, and suggestions that the global shipping industry is depressed. This paper looks at the need for further container terminal developments worldwide, and the factors contributing to this need. Procurement procedure for such terminals is reviewed briefly, including the trend towards privatisation, where project funding and risk are key considerations. It goes on to consider alternative forms of construction contract, including the options for allocation of design and supervision responsibility. Finally, some specific aspects of design-and-construct contracts are discussed, including environmental considerations, design standards, and tender procedures. Although this paper focuses initially on container terminal developments, many of the matters discussed are equally applicable to other types of port development.