Supply chain pressures lead to first direct China-Scotland container service

Launched in response to growing global pressures on the supply chain, the new east and west bound freight route from Chinese ports to Greenock Ocean Terminals is a partnership between KC Liner Agencies, DKT Allseas and China Xpress.

‘FRUSTRATING’ DELAYS EXPECTED TO BE ELIMINATED

The move will provide Scottish importers and exporters with a direct port of call and eliminate decades of issues with transhipments and delays at other European ports. The direct sailings are expected to almost halve the transit times, compared to feeder services via continental Europe or other southern UK ports.

TRADE LINK TO BENEFIT SCOTTISH BUSINESSES

David Milne, KC Group Shipping Managing Director, said: “This is a game-changer, not just for KC Group Shipping, but for the whole of Scotland. China Xpress is one of the most significant developments in the UK, especially Scotland’s shipping industry, for many years. The opportunities and benefits are endless, and this trade link could not have come at a better time for Scottish businesses.

“I’m constantly being told about the frustrations of delays at European ports, which hamper business operations and relationships for many. These frustrations will significantly reduce as a result of the China Xpress service.”

NEW CONNECTION IS A VOTE OF CONFIDENCE

Jim McSporran, Clydeport Director at Peel Ports, said: “It will be a really proud moment when we welcome the first direct container service connecting China and Scotland to Greenock Ocean Terminal. It’s a real vote of confidence that we have been chosen for this connection, which will improve the service for our customers.

“These direct services will reduce transit times and delays and prove to be a real boost to the wider supply chain. Greenock Ocean Terminal offers the flexibility to handle increased cargo volumes and we look forward to working with KC Liner Agencies, DKT Allseas and China Xpress on this momentous partnership.”

MAIDEN VOYAGE SCHEDULED FOR LATE SUMMER

The maiden voyage from Ningbo, China, is scheduled to berth at Scotland’s deepest container terminal in late August. It will lead to three sailings per month in each direction, calling at Ningbo, and the Chinese city of Shenzhen, before arriving in Greenock via its “sister” container terminal at the Port of Liverpool. The new service aims to cut the journey time from approximately 60 days to an estimated 33 days by eliminating unscheduled port congestion delays in Rotterdam, and the route will be operated by six ships of about 1,600 TEUs (twenty foot equivalent units).

EXPORT BOOST FOR SCOTTISH BUSINESSES

This is set to provide an export boost for the food and drink sector in particular, including prestigious whisky brands, as well as the oil and gas sector, which will benefit from the sales of machinery and pipes from Scotland.

David Milne added: “I am encouraged that Scotland’s industries now have a solution to ensure commerce, products and trade in and out of Scotland have an effective and competitive way forward.”

STRATEGICALLY IMPORTANT PORT

The location of Greenock Ocean Terminal is of strategic importance to major importers and exporters and, as Scotland’s leading west coast container terminal, the port is responsible for the safe handling of a throughput of 100,000 TEUs a year.

Mags Simpson, Head of Policy Engagement, Logistics UK, said: “Scotland represents a significant chunk of the UK-wide economy, so we welcome this first direct container service from China. The geographic peripherality of Scotland can be a challenge to road operators, especially during the winter months, so this opportunity to import and export goods directly from and to the Far East is to be applauded.”

*www.logistics.org.uk/water

Published On: 28/07/2022 16:00:14

Comments Section

If you are a Logistics UK member login to add comments.