Qingdao Port began 2026 with four new international container routes in January, including services to Australia-New Zealand, the Red Sea, and Southeast Asia, operated by global giants like MSC and COSCO. This expansion brings its total foreign trade routes to nearly 240, connecting to over 700 ports in more than 180 countries and regions.

The new direct Australia-New Zealand route reduces transit times for northern Chinese exports like machinery and chemicals, while the Red Sea service strengthens trade links with key ports in Saudi Arabia and Egypt. The additional Southeast Asia routes further integrate Qingdao with major ASEAN hubs such as Laem Chabang Port in Thailand, supporting growing trade in electronics and agriculture.

As China's second-largest foreign trade port and the leading hub in northern China, Qingdao uses an extensive network of 56 inland dry ports and 86 rail-sea intermodal services. This system has enabled it to lead the nation in rail-sea container volume for 11 consecutive years, channeling cargo efficiently from inland regions to global markets.

Strengthening its role as a Northeast Asia shipping hub, Qingdao Port continues to optimize its global network, supporting supply chain stability and regional economic growth in the new five-year period.

As China's second-largest foreign trade port and the leading hub in northern China, Qingdao uses an extensive network of 56 inland dry ports and 86 rail-sea intermodal services. [Photo/Guanhai News]