Structural Evolution and Functional Differentiation of the Global Container Port Network: A Systems Perspective (2014–2024)

Port competition is increasingly shaped by network structures and differentiated functional roles rather than isolated capacity-based comparisons. This study investigates the structural evolution and functional differentiation of the global container port network from a systems perspective by integrating port-cluster identification with role-based functional evaluation. A CONCOR-based approach is employed to delineate structurally cohesive port clusters, while the rank-sum ratio (RSR) method is used to assess ports’ dominant functional roles, including High-Efficiency core, Bridge-Control, and free-form bridging functions. Based on a comparative analysis of network data for 2014 and 2024, the results reveal a transition from a relatively dispersed and multi-polar configuration toward a more concentrated and hierarchical system. Three recurrent spatial structures are identified, reflecting differentiated patterns of trunk connectivity, corridor organisation, and adaptive network flexibility. Functionally, core hubs have expanded their coverage of mainline services, Bridge-Control ports have become increasingly concentrated at strategic chokepoints and transition zones, and free-form bridging ports have enhanced routing flexibility by linking structurally non-overlapping subnetworks. These findings advance understanding of the evolving structure and interdependence of global port competition and provide insights for system-level coordination, cluster-based governance, and coordinated infrastructure planning.