Globally Connected, Locally Invested
Hapag-Lloyd and CMA CGM have collaborated to launch a new service connecting India with the United States via Jeddah, enabling customers in both countries access to an improved shipping experience.
Mawani has introduced the Indamex 2 shipping service to Jeddah Islamic Port, furthering Saudi Arabia's plans of forging international connections and solidifying its status as an East-West hub. This new trade route is a crucial step towards achieving the visions set out in the National Transport and Logistics Strategy (NTLS).
The Kingdom's bustling port is set to become even more connected, with access emerging from trade gateways spanning the Indian Subcontinent and North America; Port Qasim in Pakistan, Mundra and Jawaharlal Nehru ports in India, as well as Norfolk, Charleston and Savannah across the US.
On January 11th, Swansea – a 6,966 teu capacity Liberia-flagged vessel – embarked on its maiden voyage from the Red Sea port. Two weeks later it arrived safely at Norfolk on Januray 29th after traversing thousands of nautical miles.
Hapag-Lloyd and CMA CGM have recently updated their Indamex 1 service to now include Jeddah on outbound trips. This new addition brings a wealth of possibilities for customers as they can secure faster transit times between the Middle East, India and Far East ports than previously achievable.
Last year, amid a world-wide push to increase global logistics rankings and improve sector efficiency, Saudi Arabia made significant strides in their port operations. Minister of Transport Nabil bin Mohammed Al Mawani spearheaded the launching of nine shipping services which have helped raise the Kingdom's performance standards.
As part of its Vision 2030 plan, Saudi Arabia is strategically investing in the development of West coast ports to capitalize on increasing global maritime trade between EU nations and Far Eastern countries. Taking advantage of proximal shipping via Colombo-Suez Canal route could cut sailing times significantly for these trades. Analysts project that this port reform will result in fourfold throughput by the year 2030.
Filipino seafarers may be prohibited from crewing EU-flagged vessels. The President of the Philippines seeks to ensure these individuals can remain employed in their chosen field and continue contributing positively within the maritime industry.
