* Proximity to international sea routes
* Patronage of the port by surrounding areas where the agricultural and industrial production is high
* Suitability of the climate for year-round operations in the port
* Presence of a free-trade zone with its own docks along with an internationally prominent seaport
* Suitability of the city's railway and highway connections for nation-wide mixed mode transportation
* Uniqueness of Mersin Port as a port offering all the services
* Absence of another significant port
* Presence of business organizations like Mediterranean Exporters Association and Turkish Standards Institute