Export routes for Chinese vehicles
AD Ports looks at automotive logistics strategy with Ningbo Zhoushan
The partnership will expand ro-ro terminal capacity, support multimodal transport via the TransCaspian route and enhance visibility through digital platforms.
AD Ports has signed a preliminary strategic agreement with Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Investment and Operation Group (Ningbo Zhoushan Port Group) to connect China’s carmakers with markets in the Middle East, central Asia and Africa through integrated terminal operations, dedicated fleet services and multimodal transport. The move is a response to the increased demand for logistics services for global vehicle exports from China.
AD Ports said the agreement aims to develop vehicle ro-ro terminals at Ningbo Zhoushan Port and AD Ports’ hub locations. Those developments include increasing vehicle handling capacity as well as equipping the ports to accommodate larger vessels. The partners are also looking at reducing turnaround times at vehicle terminals.
They will also look at connecting ocean and inland rail routes through what is designated The Middle Corridor, or the TransCaspian International Transport Route, offering alternative services between China, central Asia and Europe. The service would support China’s Belt and Road trade and logistics initiative, which includes passage between China and Europe via Kazakhstan by rail, connecting key transport hubs such as Dostyk, Altynkol and Khorgos.
Deep-sea services
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The agreement between AD Ports and Ningbo Zhoushan Port Group was signed at a ceremony to mark the maiden voyage of the UGR Zakher, the second LNG-powered pure car and truck carrier (PCTC) operated by United Global Ro-Ro (UGR), a joint venture between AD Ports and Turkish port operator Erkport.
UGR will be the designated ro-ro carrier for the joint venture and build on its existing services between China and the Middle East, Asia and the Mediterranean. The UGR Zakher, like its sister vessel UGR Al Samha, has capacity for 7,000 car equivalent units (CEU).
“This preliminary strategic partnership with [Ningbo Zhoushan Port Group] marks a defining moment in our combined efforts to establish smart, connected automotive corridors across continents,” said Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, managing director and group CEO of AD Ports. “With our fleet and global experience in the ro-ro segment complemented by UGR’s operations, we offer immediate vessel availability and operational excellence.”
AD Ports said the agreement with Ningbo Zhoushan Port Group will include the development of digital platforms that provide real-time visibility, predictive analytics and “automated coordination” to enhance performance, reduce complexity and limit manual intervention.
