E-readiness of the sultanate of Oman’s ports in improving logistics and supply chain global competitiveness

This study investigates the level of e-readiness of the Sultanate of Oman’s port facilities and industries and explores their preparedness for global competitiveness in logistics and supply chain. The study employed a mixed research design. The study surveyed 286 industry experts from Muscat, Salalah, and Sohar ports. This research carefully examines how port infrastructure, technology, laws, and electronic human resources management (e-HRM) interact with port e-readiness and how it affects the port’s ability to compete internationally. The results show that port facilities, legal and regulatory frameworks, technological infrastructure, and global competitiveness are significantly positively correlated. Interesting to note that, e-HRM positively correlates with global competitiveness whereas it negatively impacts port e-readiness. The study indicates that the existing port infrastructure, legal and regulatory framework and human resources need to be enhanced to improve the country’s global competitiveness. Importers and exporters were facing some challenges with unclear documentation procedures which are detrimental to improving the competitiveness of Oman ports and logistics facilities. The results show that the country has invested a lot of resources in improving the internet connectivity of the major ports and logistics industries which is critical in enhancing the country’s competitiveness. The study used structural equation modelling to highlight the importance of improving port infrastructure, legal and regulatory frameworks, technology adoption, and e-HRM practices to strengthen Oman’s position in the global market. To achieve this, the study recommends the development of an e-readiness strategy, investment in port facilities, review of legal and regulatory frameworks, and optimisation of e-HRM practices.