First China-Scotland service

The new freight service – a partnership between KC Liner Agencies, DKT Allseas and China Xpress – arrived at 9.35am, carrying textiles, furniture and toys. In a boost for the Scottish export market, its return journey will see tens of thousands of cases of whisky transported to Ningbo, China.

Jim McSporran, Clydeport director at Peel Ports, said it was great to welcome the vital service. “Our terminal is the perfect fit for such a global trade connection, and this is again shown by the significant volumes we will be helping ship back to China,” he said.

“We believe this partnership will prove to be a hugely positive development for businesses and customers, as well as boosting the wider supply chain, and we look forward to continuing to work with our partners on this service in the coming months.”

The direct trading link will help cut transshipment delays, according to David Milne, managing directr of KC Group Shipping. “We knew China Xpress was a service needed by many sectors, but still, we’ve been amazed at the level of immediate interest,” he said.

“I described this as a game changer for Scotland, and the uptake in the service is certainly proving that case, for Scotland’s furniture, pharmaceuticals, packaging and spirits sectors.”

Three sailings will take place per month in each direction, calling at Ningbo, and the Chinese city of Shenzhen, before arriving in Greenock via its sister container terminal at the Port of Liverpool.

The route will be operated by six ships of around 1,600 teu each.