This
move is set to streamline operations and reduce logistics costs substantially. The announcement made on June 10 also includes the
introduction of a weekly express service that connects Port Klang in
Malaysia and Yangon
Port in Myanmar directly.
Traditionally, cargo movement between China and
Kolkata has depended on transit through hubs like Singapore. The launch of this
direct service marks a shift towards more efficient shipping routes. The
inaugural vessel, SITC
Nagoya, marked the commencement of this service by docking at
the Haldia
International
Container Terminal on June 6, having sailed directly from
Shanghai. Following closely, the SITC Tianjin is expected to arrive at the
Haldia Dock Complex from China by June 12.
Mr.Rathendra
Raman, Chairman of SMPK, highlighted
the economic benefits of this new service. According to him, shipping costs
for cargo from Far East countries to SMP Kolkata could see a reduction of about
35 per cent compared to traditional routes. This cost efficiency is anticipated
to foster regular trade between India and key Far East nations such as
Malaysia, Myanmar, China, and Japan.
The operation of this service is managed by J M Baxi
Ports and Logistics. It features a port rotation that includes Port Klang,
Haldia Dock Complex, Yangon Port, and extends to Shanghai. This strategic
routing ensures a direct and seamless connection between the Far East ports and
Kolkata.
This development is poised to benefit a wide range of
stakeholders in the region. Shippers located in West Bengal, Odisha, Chhattisgarh,
Bihar, the North East of India, as well as neighboring countries like Nepal and
Bhutan, stand to gain from reduced transit times and costs.
The direct service not only
enhances the efficiency of cargo movement but also promotes greater economic
integration with major trading partners in the Far East