CentrePort, a state-owned port in New Zealand, is set to launch a new shipping route which will link Wellington with the Americas and Europe, according to Business Day.
The new ‘Panama’ service, which includes services from CMA CGM and Marfret, will take goods from central New Zealand directly to the Americas and Europe.
Blair O’Keeffe, CEO of CentrePort, said: “[The service] adds weight to Wellington's position as the port of choice for central New Zealand importers and exporters.
“Our investments are focused on bringing the region closer to the world, by lowering cost and distance to market for local importers and exporters” who needed “reliable and regular access to these major markets.
The news of the new shipping services was welcomed by the Wellington Chamber of Commerce.
John Milford, CEO of the Wellington Chamber of Commerce, said: “A direct service means lower costs and less time to market, and that's a vital ingredient in today's world where speed is of the essence. It's also good news for consumers.
“This is a further vote in favour of the region's economy, and fits perfectly with investments the port has already made – including plans to deepen the shipping channel for bigger ships – and others which have made in roads and rail to create an efficient transport system in the lower North Island.”
CentrePort said it currently had 11 international shipping lines offering services to all parts of the globe.
In a previous article by PTI, it was reported that a new ‘Kra Canal’ was being proposed in Southern Thailand, which could be included as part of China’s Maritime Silk Road plan, in order for ships to avoid the Malacca Strait – the busiest strait in commercial shipping.
