Distinguish between ports and harbours. Why are sea ports known as gateways of international trade? Explain.

Port: Is the entire area on the sea coast with dock facility for loading and unloading of cargo. It includes administrative blocks, ware houses, custom office and transport facilities etc.

Harbour: is partially enclosed part of the sea coast providing shelter to the ships. It can be natural or manmade e.g. creek, estuary, or sea inlet.

Port as gateways of international Trade:

(i) Ports handle cargo and passenger traffic

(ii) Ports are handling large volumes of domestic as well as overseas trade.

(iii) Port provides a corridor between its hinterland and the rest of the world for international trade.