Simulation-Based Port Competition: Feasibility and Implementation of an Agent-Based Framework

The objective of this article is to discuss the feasibility and implementation of an agent-based computational framework for game-theoretical port competition. There are many different determinants which influence the competitive position of a seaport at any time. And as a consequence of this complexity, simple calculations or solution methods are not possible. This article elaborates a generic and modular framework for modeling and simulating the competition between multiple, heterogeneous port players. First, the article briefly detects some elements that are useful and necessary to develop a meaningful agent-based framework. Priority elements are determined and it is considered which elements can be passed on to extensions of the framework. Second, some important aspects of the application of the agent-based methodology for the port sector are explained. Third, a limited number of examples of modules of the proof of concept are developed. Particular attention is paid to the modularity and extensibility of the agent-based framework in order to allow the users of the framework to fine-tune the choices in their simulation model. Finally, in a fourth part of this article, recommendations are formulated for the further development and enrichment of the framework.