An empirical investigation of the seaport’s economic impact: Evidence from major ports in China

•We study the impact of seaports on the economy of associated port city in China.•Data from 41 major port cities in China over the period 2003–2010 is used.•We find most indicators of port development are positively related to economic growth.•We find the neighboring ports also contribute to the local port city economy. In this study, we investigate the impact of the seaport on host city’s economic development. Based on data from 41 major port cities in China over the period 2003–2010, our econometric analysis shows that port cargo throughput has a positive effect on the economic growth of the host city. In addition, the competing ports in the neighborhood have an even larger positive association with the local port city. Through examining some of the most dynamic ports in the world, this study provides a renewed understanding of the economic importance of seaports.