The Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA) has announced the selection of United Base Co., Ltd. as its official representative in Vietnam.
This strategic partnership will strengthen NWSA’s presence in this key market and enhance trade opportunities between the Pacific Northwest and Vietnam.
As NWSA’s third-largest trading partner, Vietnam has become a vital component of the NWSA’s global trade network, accounting for approximately 10 per cent of the NWSA’s total international containerized volume in 2023. United Base Co., based in Ho Chi Minh City, brings experience in marketing and promoting US agricultural products in Vietnam.
The NWSA reportedly already boasts the fastest ocean service between Vietnam and the Pacific Northwest with UWL/SWIRE shipping’s Sun Chief Express. This new partnership will further solidify the NWSA’s position as the premier gateway for trade between the two regions. Francis Lee, the firm’s director, will spearhead the partnership.
By expanding its presence in Vietnam, the NWSA aims to facilitate the movement of increased agricultural exports through its gateway to international markets and capture a larger share of imports from this emerging manufacturing powerhouse. This will reportedly benefit both US agriculture producers and US consumers by providing efficient and reliable shipping options between the two regions.
The partnership will officially commence on 1 September, 2024, with the option to renew in January 2025.
“We are excited to partner with United Base Co., Ltd. to strengthen our presence in Vietnam,” said Kristin Ang, Port of Tacoma Commission President and Co-Chair of The Northwest Seaport Alliance.
“This strategic alliance will enable us to better serve our customers and capitalise on the growing trade opportunities between our two regions.”
READ: NWSA records 13 per cent TEU growth
“Vietnam is a dynamic and growing market, and we are looking forward to strengthening our presence through this partnership with United Base Co., Ltd,” stated Toshiko Hasegawa, Port of Seattle Commission Vice-President and Co-Chair of The Northwest Seaport Alliance.
“This strategic move reinforces our commitment to providing exceptional service to our customers and driving economic growth for the Pacific Northwest.”
Last month, the NWSA announced that its Terminal 5 (T5) refrigerated container will undergo electrical upgrades.
More recently, the NWSA was awarded the best-performing port on the West Coast at the Logistics Management’s 41st Annual Quest for Quality Awards.