An Evaluation of the Coupling Coordination Degree of the Yangtze River Delta Port Cluster Based on Coupling Theory

An Evaluation of the Coupling Coordination Degree of the Yangtze River Delta Port Cluster Based on Coupling Theory

To quantitatively assess the correlation between subsystems within a port cluster and the overall coordinated development of the port group, the current paper evaluates the coordinated development of port clusters. First, we construct an evaluation index system for the coupling and coordination of port clusters. Next, we introduce the contribution index of port subsystems, coupling degree, and coupling coordination degree functions to formulate a coupling coordination evaluation model for the port cluster. Finally, we use the Yangtze River Delta port cluster as a case study for validation, specifically using empirical data from 2012 to 2021. The findings reveal distinct phased characteristics in the coupling and coordination of port clusters in the Yangtze River Delta, marked by a notable transition from “maladjustment” to “coordination.” Further, sustained high coupling values over a decade indicate a significant level of competition and cooperation among ports within the Yangtze River Delta port cluster. Over time, this competitive and collaborative dynamic has progressively evolved toward a more positive and structured direction. Lastly, it is expected that the evaluation model proposed in this paper can be extrapolated to other port clusters to gauge the extent of coordinated development, thereby facilitating horizontal comparisons and vertical analyses.