1st Container Ship Link Scotland to China Launched

With the introduction of a new direct connection, shipping from Scotland to China, and vice versa, are expected to be reduced by almost half, benefitting Scottish industries like food and drink.1600 containers are expected to arrive on the inaugural journey from Ningbo in the Zhejiang province to Greenock Port in the middle of August. 4800 containers will travel to Scotland and 4800 will return to China.

By removing unforeseen port congestion delays in Rotterdam, the direct China Xpress freight route, introduced by Glasgow-based KC Group Shipping, is anticipated to reduce travel durations from roughly 60 days to an estimated 33 days.

The service, according to David Milne, managing director of KC Group Shipping, will benefit Scotland's food and beverage industry, including many prominent Scotch whisky companies. Significant gains are also anticipated for suppliers of equipment and pipes to the oil and gas industry.

Furniture and textiles produced in China should consequently reach Scottish industry and customers much more quickly.

“This is a game-changer, not just for KC Group Shipping, but for the whole of Scotland,” said Milne. “The opportunities and benefits are endless, and this trade link could not have come at a better time for Scottish businesses.

When compared to the former average of above 90%, the reliability of international shipping schedules is currently at a global record low of less than 30%.“By cutting the transition time in half, this new route will help a huge range of sectors but it will be especially welcome within our food and drink sector who will now be able to export more goods to the Asian market,” said deputy chief executive of the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce Richard Muir. “We look forward to the maiden voyage this year and hope more Scottish firms look at growing their business through exporting.

”The initial delivery is planned for August 20 in Greenock.