The ports have been the backbone of trade since ages. In fact, if we look into the history, we notice that the primitive societies were mostly located near water. This is due to the fact that water enables more efficient level transportation in comparison to land. Even the British also chose water transport to explore India. To facilitate the trade between Europe and Asia, Suez Canal was built to shorten the distance. From the mythological age to the present days of sophisticated transportation; both national and international ports are playing a pivotal role in the economy.

The ports are well-equipped with the essential infrastructure for wide spread trade and business. To facilitate smooth loading and unloading of ships, cargo handling equipments like cranes and forklifts are used. However, the complex network of costal ports, inland ports, rail, air and truck routes builds up the foundation pillar of world economy.

Canada has the highest coastline of total 202,080 km followed by Indonesia having 54,716 km and Greenland having 44,087 km coastline. Russia has a coastline of 37,653 km whereas the U.S.A has 19,924 km and the U.K has 12,429 as coastline. Our India stands 19th having total coastline of 7,000 km.

There are some ports in the world which are very sophisticated and frequently used for international trade. One example can be Singapore Beaumont, Brisbane, Rotterdam, Shanghai and so on. They are playing very important roles in the international trade and transport. The major ports in India are Kolkata, Chennai, Cochin, JNP, Kandla, New Mangalore Mormugao, Mumbai, Paradip, Tuticorin and Visakhapatnam.

Economists opine that a country will not be able to realize its potential economic growth unless steps are not taken for up gradation of its marine facilities. One can minimize the extra cost and burden by providing smooth and hassle free port facilities. Many countries have taken the benefit of it. For example, Venezuela who exports 48% of total petroleum oil has an excellent port facility. In Asia, the Singapore Port, Chiba Port in Japan, Hong Kong Port in Hong Kong and Johor Port in Malaysia are the busiest ports and frequently used in trade and commerce.