The arrival of the CMA CGM Louis at Qingdao Port's Qianwan Container Terminal marked the addition of a new Southeast Asia shipping route. This brings the total number of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) routes launched by Qingdao Port in 2024 to 13, further enhancing its maritime network. The expanded connectivity offers trade enterprises high-quality international logistics channels, solidifying Qingdao Port's role as a vital gateway for BRI countries and regions.

The CMA CGM Louis handled 1,350 TEUs during its stop at Qingdao Port. This new route, jointly launched by CMA CGM and COSCO Shipping, will operate four vessels on a weekly schedule. The route travels south through Singapore to Malaysia's largest port, Port Klang, providing faster and more reliable trade services between China and Southeast Asia. This development significantly bolsters Qingdao Port's position as a key international shipping hub in Northeast Asia.

In recent years, Qingdao Port has leveraged its strategic location and advanced port facilities to build a comprehensive shipping network connecting major ports worldwide. It continues to assist liner companies in expanding direct routes to Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) countries and regions, as well as those in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). In 2024, trade volume with BRI partner countries and regions grew by more than 10%.

"To date, Qingdao Port has launched over 200 container shipping routes, connecting more than 700 ports in over 180 countries and regions worldwide," said Director Xie Dongmei of the Foreign Trade Department of Qingdao Port Group. "These routes cover traditional markets in Asia, Europe, and North America, while also expanding into emerging markets in South America and Africa."

In addition to expanding maritime connectivity, Qingdao Port has also strengthened its inland sea-rail inter-modal routes, offering efficient and convenient services for hinterland customers. This year, Qingdao Port has established 10 new inland ports and launched 6 additional sea-rail intermodal services, further solidifying its role as a key gateway. In the first 10 months of 2024, sea-rail intermodal volumes grew by 15.2% year-on-year, maintaining Qingdao Port's position as the leader in this sector among Chinese ports.