Transportation system and its logistical dimensions in foreign trade efficiency

Abstract

The objective was to determine the relationship between the transportation system and foreign trade in the transportation sector in Peru. A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional approach was used, with a descriptive and correlational level. The sample consisted of 107 transportation operators who completed a questionnaire evaluating the transportation system and foreign trade. The data were processed using descriptive statistics and correlational analysis. The frequency results revealed that the perception of the transportation system is moderately favorable. In addition, most of the evaluations focused on aspects of flexibility, communication, and compliance with delivery times, while weaknesses were identified in terms of safety, capacity, and infrastructure. Regarding the perception of foreign trade, clarity, transparency, and documentary efficiency showed positive results, although with limitations in terms of logistics and operational flexibility. A relationship was found between the transportation system and foreign trade (Rho = 0.601; p<0.001), with the strongest correlation in delivery time (Rho = 0.575; p<0.001), mode of transport (Rho = 0.537; p<0.001), and infrastructure (Rho = 0.366; p<0.001) with foreign trade. It is concluded that the efficiency of the transport system is a key component for foreign trade. Improving the transport system in terms of infrastructure, diversifying modes of transport, reducing logistics times, and digitizing documents are determining factors in strengthening international competitiveness.