European Transport - Trasporti Europei, sa.106, 2026 (ESCI, Scopus)
This study explores the perceptions of logistics sector employees regarding Turkey’s strategic role in international transportation under the Belt and Road Initiative. The sample includes 402 employees working at border gates, ports, railway terminals, and logistics centers, selected via convenience sampling. Data were analyzed using SPSS 27.0. Results show that Turkey’s position between Asia and Europe is considered a major logistical advantage. While road and rail infrastructures are rated positively, port infrastructure is seen as needing improvement. Logistics service quality, digitalization, and customs operations received favorable evaluations. However, border congestion, bureaucratic transit procedures, and regional political instability are perceived as key challenges. Despite these issues, a cautiously optimistic view of future opportunities prevails. Significant differences in perceptions were observed by gender, age, experience, sector, region, and job unit. These findings highlight the importance of designing transportation policies based on sectoral perceptions and expectations.