The Competitive dynamics of the freight container manufacturing industry

This article investigates the on-going relocation of freight container production, particularly in the standard dry freight segment, from South Korea and Taiwan to emerging economies (especially China and south-east Asia). It offers an assessment of their competitive positions but goes beyond the conventional focus on comparative cost advantage among nations. Drawing on the wealth of trade, investment, location and strategic management theories, it explores other variables including demand condition, industry structure, foreign direct investments and vertical industry linkages, besides production factor cost.