Norwegian Ports. Framework Conditions and National Port Structure

Owing to the close connection to the municipality, norwegian municipal ports are autonomous organizations. The ports are managed in accordance with the goals of the municipalities, goals that not necessarily coincide with the goals of the region or the country. The result is a rather fragmented port structure. If this framework is to result in a less fragmentet and logistically better port structure, we find one of two actions to be taken: The port authorithies could either be presented regional or national goals, or the port structure could be formed through firmer competition without possibilities of subsidies. Analysis of the flows of transport show a high degree of concentration.