On August 1, 2023, the inaugural container train from Tianjin to Inner Mongolia officially set off, marking the launch of the 'New Port - Suji' service. This new route is expected to reduce road transport and increase the proportion of railway transport, potentially decreasing the use of 66,000 vehicles and lowering overall costs by 15%.
In June, the Logistics Manager Index (LMI) significantly rose to 60.7, marking a strong recovery in the logistics sector. The report highlights improvements in inventory levels and changes in transportation and warehousing capacities. However, it also warns of uncertainties in market demand for the second half of the year, which could impact future economic and logistics trends.
Amancio Ortega, the founder of Zara, has acquired a 49% stake in PD Ports through his investment company, marking a significant move in the infrastructure sector and showcasing his confidence in the port logistics industry. As a leading port company in the UK, PD Ports is set to benefit from this partnership, ushering in a new chapter of development.
Mardafu, the managing director of Hutchison Port Holdings Group, stated that the group intends to invest in bulk terminal projects, marking a diversification in its business activities. Additionally, the group will strengthen its supply chain management and build distribution centers to enhance logistics efficiency. The demand for modernization in Chinese ports presents promising opportunities for future investments.
The intercontinental freighter route from Ningbo, Zhejiang to the United States has recently resumed operations, promoting freight exchange between China and the U.S. and enhancing the efficiency of the international freight network. Operated by Atlas Air, the route runs three times a week, mainly carrying cross-border e-commerce and electronic products, marking the growth potential of the Ningbo freight market.
CMA CGM held a ceremony in South Carolina to flag the CMA CGM PANGAEA under the U.S. flag, marking a new phase in America's maritime strength. With a capacity of 9,300 TEUs, it is the largest U.S. flagged container ship in history. The ship will provide training for maritime students, enhance the U.S. seafarer workforce, and promote international trade and economic development.
In October 2023, China's warehousing index reached 52.8%, marking a three-month high and reflecting the healthy growth of the industry. Inventory levels, business profits, and the number of employees have all increased, indicating a recovery in market demand. With rising demand and the approach of the Double Eleven shopping festival, the future outlook for warehousing services is generally optimistic.
The Zhengzhou Europe Railway Express successfully completed its first imported grain shipment, marking the successful testing of Zhengzhou's designated port for imported grain. A total of 136 tons of wheat were imported from Kazakhstan, showcasing efficient international logistics capabilities. With more batches of grain set for import, Zhengzhou provides significant support for international trade under the Belt and Road Initiative.
In 2023, Jiaxing Port achieved a remarkable container throughput of 1.089 million TEUs in the first 11 months, marking a 4.1% increase. Foreign trade containers grew by 7.8%. With the support of Dushan Wharf, the throughput at Dushan Port Area significantly increased by 76.8%. Additionally, the development of inland waterways has injected new vitality into container transportation, seeing an increase of over 100%.
CMA CGM has acquired Swiss-based Ceva Logistics for $1 billion, aiming to expand its logistics business and provide complete supply chain solutions. This acquisition will position CMA CGM as the world's fourth-largest container operator, enhancing its competitiveness in the market. The newly integrated company will employ over 100,000 individuals, marking a significant transformation in the global logistics industry landscape.
