In the first quarter of this year, Qingdao Port has launched eight new container shipping routes, far exceeding its expansion pace from a year ago.

The new services cover Southeast Asia, Australia, Africa, and Latin America, bringing the port's total foreign trade routes to nearly 240 — the highest among northern Chinese ports. Qingdao now connects with over 700 ports in more than 180 countries and regions, ensuring precise coverage of countries and regions participating in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), RCEP members, and emerging markets.

Half of the new routes target Southeast Asia, with additional services to the Red Sea, North Africa, Australia/New Zealand, and Latin America. This diversified network helps mitigate geopolitical risks and supply chain disruptions. For example, the Red Sea route links Qingdao to Jeddah and Sokhna, supporting the energy and construction materials trade, while the North Africa route facilitates China-Egypt cooperation. The Southeast Asia lanes deepen integration with ASEAN, boosting flows of machinery, auto parts, and tropical fruits.

Meanwhile, Qingdao Port has made a green breakthrough. In March, it completed China's first "ship-to-ship" green methanol bunkering using a "one vessel, multiple ships" model, supplying 2,500 metric tons. The port sourced methanol from within Shandong province to minimize transport emissions, positioning itself as a regional green energy hub.

With stronger route networks and green fuel capabilities, Qingdao is accelerating its transformation into a modern international shipping center, enhancing its supply chain resilience and service quality.

Qingdao accelerates the development of its international shipping center, with Qingdao Port now operating nearly 240 foreign trade routes. [Photo/Guanhai News]