The cutting-edge Qingdao Port Fully Automated Container Terminal is operated by SPG. [Photo/WeChat account: Shandong-Port]

Shandong Port Group or SPG – one of the biggest port operators in the world, based in Qingdao city in China's East Shandong province – is reportedly speeding up its construction of world-class sea ports, a well-established modern industry, as well as a green and sustainable marine environment.

With its 19 inland ports and 72 sea-rail intermodal freight trains the group has built an international logistics network that has bolstered and extended industrial output and supply chains.

It is deemed axiomatic in the industry that the prosperity of ports ensures that of commerce. In pursuit of that goal, SPG has leveraged its pivotal function to accelerate promoting such emerging sectors as shipping finance.

The group has joined forces with COSCO Shipping to expand its maritime presence by opening a number of cold chain express services to Southeast Asia. On terra firma, it has striven to create a transport ecosystem for consumer goods, with the Shandong cities of Jinan and Qingdao as a dual hub, utilizing multiple bases along the Yellow River basin.

In terms of the interconnected development between ports and cities, SPG has expanded its presence through port-industry-city integration. It has forged a strategic partnership with 16 prefecture-level cities in Shandong province to develop logistics parks and industrial parks.

By settling the headquarters projects of its business units in downtown areas and investing in port-neighboring industry projects, SPG has been stepping up efforts to stimulate regional economic development.

Gateway to the world, with a leading brand

With the sound construction, management and operation of ports -- supported by top-rate facilities, technologies, management and services to integrate with key national strategies -- SPG is dedicated to  writing a new chapter in the story of the shipping sector and to developing a tremendous driving force for economic growth.