The emergence of Vladivostok as a commercial port: US versus Japanese development

The Russian port of Vladivostok, closed to foreigners since before the Second World War, hsa been opened to foreign commerce by the government of the newly-created Russian Rupublic. Although the port faces many difficulties in establishing itself, many nations, Japn and the United States included, believe that Vladivostok will become a major centre to commerce between Russian and other Pacific nations. This article examine; (1) problems facing Vladivostok and the Russian Far Eatern Ports, (2) recent cargo throughputs and potential for growth, (3) investements by Japanese and United States corporations, (4) recent policy of the Japanese and United States governments regarding economic aid and cooperation with Russia. By analysing these data, it is possible to test the hypothesis that because of Japn' geographic advantage, its reliance on imports of raw materials that could easily be supplied by Russia,and its pre-eminence as an economic power in the region, Japnese corporation will become the major economic force in the development of the Russian Far East and the Port of Vladivostok in particular.