The container vessel ZIM USA operated by ZIM Integrated Shipping Services began its maiden voyage from Qingdao Port Fully Automated Container Terminal on Oct 30. Qingdao Port, a subsidiary of Shandong Port Group (SPG), has opened a new shipping route to the US East Coast via this vessel.

According to port officials, the ship has been deployed for ZIM's premium routes to the US East Coast. Thanks to its excellent service, Qingdao Port's vessel productivity reached 180 moves per hour and completed loading operations 1.5 hours ahead of schedule for the ship's maiden voyage.

The COVID-19 pandemic and downward trends in the world economy have taken a heavy toll on the port and shipping industry, but Qingdao Port has continued to attract customers through its strength and development momentum. With various types of mega container vessels going into service, ZIM will comprehensively improve the capacity of its shipping routes to the US East Coast at Qingdao Port.

Moving forward, SPG will work together with ZIM to inject strong impetus into its efforts to become an international shipping hub center in Northeast Asia.

The container vessel ZIM USA operated by ZIM Integrated Shipping Services began its maiden voyage from Qingdao Port on Oct 30. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]