XICT readies for start of IRISL service from China-Europe

XIAMEN International Container Terminals has accommodated the Iran Bushehr, a 2,188-TEU vessel deployed by Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines (IRISL) on a trial run before the launch of regular service at XICT.

IRISL's upcoming service will offer an express channel connecting Xiamen with the Persian Gulf, the Mediterranean, North Africa and Europe. It was the first time an IRISL vessel called at Xiamen, a statement from terminal operators said.

Raymond Chan, general manager of XICT, said: "Our leading productivity, advanced facilities, and proactive customer service distinguish us from other terminals in the region, and attract a continued influx of new trade services. We are very glad to see the materialisation of this direct shipping link between Xiamen and Persian Gulf."

Xiamen International Container Terminals is a joint venture between Hutchison Delta Ports (HDP) and Xiamen Haicang Port Company situated at Haicang in the Xiamen Special Economic Zone in Fujian. It has been in operation since 1997 and is part of the HDP network, which comprises three coastal and three river ports in Southern China.

XICT is a member of the Hong Kong's Hutchison Port Holdings (HPH) Group, a subsidiary of the multinational conglomerate Hutchison Whampoa Limited (HWL). HPH operates in 47 ports and owns a number of transportation-related service companies.