The first direct container service linking China to Scotland has docked at Greenock Ocean Terminal following its maiden voyage.
More specifically, the new east and west bound cargo route from Ningbo, China arrived at Scotland’s deepest container terminal for the first time on Saturday morning at 9.35am (local time).
“It’s great to finally welcome this vital service to Greenock Ocean Terminal. Our terminal is the perfect fit for such a global trade connection, and this is again shown by the significant volumes we will be helping ship back to China,” said Jim McSporran, Clydeport director at Peel Ports.
“We believe this partnership will prove to be a hugely positive development for businesses and customers, as well as boosting the wider supply chain, and we look forward to continuing to work with our partners on this service in the coming months,” he added.
The service is a partnership of KC Liner Agencies, DKT Allseas and China Xpress.
“Our direct trading link to China cuts through frustrating transhipment delays which is a massive boost for Scottish businesses, and can only help consumers in these difficult times,” noted David Milne, CEO of KC Group Shipping.
The direct sailings will significantly reduce transit times, compared to feeder services via mainland Europe or other southern UK ports, according to a statement.
Three trips per month will be made in each direction, calling at Ningbo, and the Chinese city of Shenzhen, before arriving in Greenock via the container terminal at the Port of Liverpool.
The route will be operated by six ships with a capacity of around 1,600 TEU.
