Assessing the Barriers and Readiness for the Integration of Multimodal Transportation in the Maritime Logistics Sector of Sri Lanka

Although multimodal transportation (MMT) is being promoted as a sustainable solution to enhance freight efficiency and port hinterland connectivity, many developing economies still have limited integration of MMT. This study examines the key barriers and current readiness of Sri Lanka's maritime logistics industry for MMT integration. A survey-based approach was employed to capture industry stakeholders’ perceptions, targeting maritime and logistics professionals in Sri Lanka, following the snowball sampling method, and the data were analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) to evaluate the impact of five pre-identified barrier categories on MMT integration. A readiness assessment covering seven readiness dimensions was conducted concurrently, adopting a Balanced Readiness Level (BRL) framework. The findings indicate that market and economic, technological, and infrastructure barriers had the most significant detrimental impact on MMT integration, whereas readiness analysis revealed initial preparedness as an overall of seven considered dimensions. The findings provide useful insights for setting priorities for phased investments and policy interventions.