The Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) announced the selection of United Base, as its official representative in Vietnam.
This strategic partnership is set to bolster NWSA’s presence in this critical market, further enhancing trade opportunities between the Pacific Northwest and Vietnam.
Vietnam, NWSA’s third-largest trading partner, has become an essential part of the Seattle and Tacoma alliance’s global trade network, contributing to approximately 10% of its total international containerized volume in 2023.
Based in Ho Chi Minh City, United Base brings expertise in marketing and promoting US agricultural products in Vietnam. With a successful track record of collaborating with various US state governments and industry trade associations, the company is well-positioned to support NWSA’s growth.
According to a statement, Francis Lee, the company’s director, will lead the partnership. With over 30 years of experience in promoting US companies and products in Vietnam and a long history of working with the American Consulate and the US Foreign Agricultural Service, Lee is qualified to drive expansion and create new business opportunities for NWSA.
Currently, NWSA already offers the fastest ocean service between Vietnam and the Pacific Northwest through UWL/SWIRE Shipping’s Sun Chief Express.
“We are excited to partner with United Base Co., Ltd. to strengthen our presence in Vietnam. This strategic alliance will enable us to better serve our customers and capitalize on the growing trade opportunities between our two regions,” stated Kristin Ang, Port of Tacoma Commission President and Co-Chair of the Northwest Seaport Alliance.
By expanding its presence in Vietnam, NWSA aims to increase the flow of agricultural exports through its gateway to international markets and capture a larger share of imports from this rapidly growing manufacturing hub. This is expected to benefit US agricultural producers and consumers alike by providing efficient and reliable shipping solutions between the two regions.
The partnership will officially begin on 1 September 2024, with an option for renewal in January 2025.
“Vietnam is a dynamic and growing market, and we are looking forward to strengthening our presence through this partnership with United Base. This strategic move reinforces our commitment to providing exceptional service to our customers and driving economic growth for the Pacific Northwest,” commented Toshiko Hasegawa, Port of Seattle Commission Vice-President and Co-Chair of the Northwest Seaport Alliance.
