Qingdao is expanding its maritime services sector through robotics, AI, and digital solutions, as local companies seek new opportunities in international shipping markets.

Transport services accounted for $10.54 billion, 61.2 percent of the city's total services trade in 2025, with maritime and international shipping services among the key sectors Qingdao plans to develop as a national demonstration zone for innovative services trade.

Qingdao COSCO Shipping Digital Intelligence Technology is developing intelligent robots for ship maintenance and inspection. Its fifth-generation cargo hold cleaning robot uses remote control and adaptive technologies to handle hazardous tasks, improving operational safety and efficiency.

Winkong Marine, another Qingdao-based company, has developed WinOrca FleetOne, an integrated digital maintenance solution that combines scheduled maintenance, predictive monitoring, and spare parts management to help shipowners improve fleet operations.

A local weather-routing technology company has also developed navigation software and vessel performance models to optimize routes and fuel consumption. By the end of 2025, its services covered more than 700 vessels and 25,000 voyages.

These innovations highlight Qingdao's efforts to move beyond traditional shipping operations and provide higher-value digital services to the global maritime industry.