DP World Joins Forces With Zhejiang Seaport To Amplify UAE-China Maritime Trade

DP World and Zhejiang Seaport Group have announced a new partnership to enhance port logistics and shipping routes between Jebel Ali Port in Dubai and Ningbo-Zhoushan Port in China. This collaboration aims to attract more shipping companies to establish additional maritime routes between these ports, thereby improving connectivity and efficiency.

The agreement will also explore investment opportunities in the Jebel Ali Free Zone and Zhejiang Free Trade Zone. Additionally, it will support automobile logistics by leveraging Dubai's role as a regional transit hub and China's position as a major automotive exporter. This will facilitate Ro-Ro trade between Ningbo-Zhoushan Port and Jebel Ali.

The two entities will work together to promote the construction of green and low-carbon ports. They plan to establish an information-sharing mechanism and share experiences in building green terminals, using shore power, and refuelling green ships with environmentally friendly fuels like LNG and green methanol. This initiative aims to create a green shipping corridor between Jebel Ali Port and Ningbo-Zhoushan Port.

Abdulla bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director of DP World GCC, commented, "We are pleased to sign this agreement with Zhejiang Seaport Group. This strategic collaboration aligns with our vision of expanding our presence in China and working with like-minded partners to strengthen trade routes and accelerate the green energy transition. China is the UAE’s largest trading partner, and we are committed to supporting the Belt and Road Initiative through this and other ventures."

Tao ChengBo, Chairman of Zhejiang Seaport Group and Ningbo-Zhoushan Port Group, stated, "Our partnership with DP World will further strengthen China’s position as a major player in global trade, creating extensive opportunities for Chinese businesses to access customers across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and Africa. The UAE is an important hub for China’s Belt and Road Initiative."

This partnership will encourage shipping lines to cooperate through slot exchanges and vessel space purchases on the Dubai-Ningbo route. Such cooperation is expected to enhance the level of connectivity between these two maritime hubs significantly.

The collaboration aims to promote low-carbon facilities in ports by expanding the application of new energy sources. It encourages ships to use clean fuels, contributing significantly to the green transition of the shipping industry.

This strategic cooperation aligns with both entities' goals of strengthening trade routes while promoting sustainable practices within the shipping industry. The focus on green energy transition highlights their commitment to environmental sustainability.

The agreement marks a significant step towards enhancing global trade routes while prioritising environmental sustainability. It underscores the importance of international partnerships in achieving common goals for economic growth and environmental protection.

With inputs from WAM