Determinants Factors Affecting the Competitiveness of Thai Ocean Freight  Forwarders: An Application  of the Confirmatory Factor Analysis

Suphalak  Sriwilai; Sarawut  Luksanato

Suphalak Sriwilai Burapha University Chonburi Thailand
Sarawut Luksanato Burapha University Chonburi, Thailand

Keywords: Confirmatory factor analysis, firm resource, business networks, maritime logistics service quality, and competitiveness

Abstract

This research aims to study the factors affecting the competitiveness of Thai ocean freight forwarders. The samples for this study were 208 Thai ocean freight forwarders. The research instrument was a factor evaluation form designed to investigate the factors affecting the competitiveness of Thai ocean freight forwarders and test reliability (0.973). The content validity was assessed by experts, and the construct validity analyzed by conducting a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) using the LISREL program. The model of factors affecting the competitiveness of Thai ocean freight forwarders was found to be consistent with the theoretical framework. The findings indicate that in order to increase their competitiveness potential, Thai ocean freight forwarders should focus on improving maritime logistics service quality, firm resources, and business networks.