Merchant Fleet Performance of Türkiye: A CRITIC-based TOPSIS Approach

Abstract

The study focuses on assessing the merchant fleet performance of Türkiye, a country surrounded by seas on three sides and holding a pivotal position in global logistics networks. It considers mean age of vessels, total carrying capacity in dead weight tons, and the number of ships as indicators influencing Türkiye’s merchant fleet performance, with the importance weights of these indicators determined using the CRITIC method. Based on the determined weights, Türkiye’s merchant fleet performance for the years 2011-2023 is evaluated using the TOPSIS method. The findings reveal that mean age of vessels emerges as the indicator with the highest importance weight. The analysis indicates an improvement in Türkiye’s fleet performance between 2011 and 2013, followed by a subsequent decline from 2013 onwards. Notably, there is a significant shift observed in 2016 across all three indicators. Given Türkiye’s aging fleet, the study suggests a focus on acquiring young and high-capacity vessels to enhance fleet performance. This strategic approach can help Türkiye optimize its maritime trade capability and maintain competitiveness in the global shipping industry.