Direct shipping route opens between Qinzhou, Hai Phong ports

The container ship Haian Lines, loaded with goods such as glass, steel products, and auto parts, set sail from Qinzhou Port in Guangxi on Dec 25, marking the inaugural voyage along the cross-border direct shipping route between Qinzhou Port and Hai Phong Port in Vietnam.

The liner transportation will now operate regularly, significantly enhancing trade between China and Vietnam.

Hai Phong Port serves as the maritime gateway to Vietnam's capital, Hanoi. The port is only 163 nautical miles from Qinzhou Port, with an approximate sea journey of eight hours. Hai Phong Port plays a significant role in facilitating trade between Qinzhou and Vietnam, accounting for 60 percent of all traffic, meaning the new route has immense potential in boosting Sino-Vietnamese trade.

"The launch of the cross-border direct shipping route aims to establish a convenient maritime trade corridor between China and Vietnam, effectively creating a high-speed maritime shuttle route," said Zuo Kongtian, deputy director of the management committee of the China-Malaysia Qinzhou Industrial Park.

Cross-border direct shipping mechanisms like streamlined entry and exit procedures between Qinzhou Port and Hai Phong Port will remain in effect 24/7 year-round, significantly promoting trade between the two ports.

Haian Liner prepares for its inaugural voyage from Qinzhou Port. [Photo by Hou Zhaobo/Nanguo Morning Post]