Introduction: Ports are an important asset for a nation. Ports serve the country not only to strengthen trade and grow the economy, but also to serve as a hub for national employment. Ports are also important from the point of view of the country's security. Many countries have naval bases in their commercial ports. Recent developments in ship types, including containerization, have radically changed the way ports operate. Containerization has increased the need for modern cranes and faster handling equipment to increase ship turnover. Hershman (19.., p.99) states that “the port is a control point of the modern nation-state, a place where national security, trade, immigration and customs are managed. Thus, in virtually every country in the world, port development, administration and finance are important functions of the national government. Nations recognize the need to develop these ports. They have policies in place to guide and monitor this progress. This essay will examine the different types of ports; also identify the factors that influence the development of national policies and r...