AD Ports Group and Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Investment & Operation Group Co. (Ningbo Zhoushan Port Group), one of China’s largest and most dynamic port operators, have entered into a preliminary strategic agreement to establish a comprehensive automotive logistics ecosystem connecting Chinese manufacturing capabilities outside markets.
The agreement was signed by Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, AD Ports Group, and Tao Chengbo, Chairman, Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Investment & Operation Group Co., at a ceremony marking the maiden voyage of UGR Zakher, the second LNG-powered vessel operated by United Global Ro-Ro (UGR), a Joint Venture formed between AD Ports Group and Erkport.
Operational expertise
Plans include using UGR as the designated Ro-Ro carrier, which has a specialised PCTC and Ro-Ro vessel fleet and the operational expertise. UGR already operates Ro-Ro services connecting China with terminals in the Middle East, Asia and the Mediterranean.
“With our fleet and global experience in the Ro-Ro segment complemented by UGR’s operations, we offer immediate vessel availability and operational excellence,” stated Capt. Al Shamisi.
“Leveraging the cooperation in car roll-on/roll-off services, we will further expand our business areas, enhance comprehensive cooperation in logistics, warehousing, and inject strong momentum into the coordinated development of the China-Arab Economic Corridor,” remarked Chengbo.
UGR Zakher, with a capacity of 7,000 Car Equivalent Units (CEUs), mirrors the attributes of sister ship, UGR Al Samha, which was acquired earlier this year.
