@article{article_1759836, title={Strategic Evaluation in Digital Trade Facilitation: A SWOT-AHP Integrated Approach for Paperless Cross-Border Trade Systems}, journal={Turkish Journal of Maritime and Marine Sciences}, pages={1–17}, year={2025}, DOI={10.52998/trjmms.1759836}, author={Kayisoglu, Gizem}, keywords={Paperless cross-border trade, Digital transformation, Maritime cybersecurity, SWOT-AHP}, abstract={Paperless cross-border trade systems are transforming international maritime logistics by replacing traditional paper documents with digital processes. This study provides a strategic evaluation of such systems through an integrated SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis combined with the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The rapid digitalization of trade – including electronic documents, electronic signatures, electronic customs portals, and single window platforms – promises enhanced efficiency, cost reduction, and transparency in global trade. However, implementation is impeded by legal misalignments, technical infrastructure gaps, and security concerns. In this research, SWOT analysis is used to identify internal strengths and weaknesses and external opportunities and threats of paperless trade systems, and AHP is applied to systematically prioritize these factors based on expert input. The results reveal that public–private sector integration and operational efficiency enhancement are the most critical strengths, while legal and administrative harmonization deficiencies pose the top weakness. Green logistics and sustainability trends emerge as significant opportunities, whereas cybersecurity risks represent the foremost threat. Building on these findings, strategic recommendations are offered – including accelerating single window adoption, harmonizing digital trade regulations, fostering data-driven innovations, and strengthening cybersecurity – to facilitate the successful implementation of paperless trade in maritime logistics. This study demonstrates that the SWOT-AHP integrated approach produces an objective, multi-faceted strategic assessment of paperless trade systems, guiding policymakers in prioritizing initiatives that bolster digital trade facilitation and international supply chain resilience.}, publisher={Ordu University}, organization={No funding was received from institutions or agencies for the execution of this research.}