With the advancement of the construction of the Belt and Road Initiative, Dalian Port in Liaoning has increasingly become a hotline for cargo transportation between China and Europe. On May 8, 2023, MSC Katy, which operates on MSC's newly upgraded Mediterranean Western Line DRAGON route, made its maiden voyage at Dalian Container Terminal of Liaoning Port Group.

According to reports, this route is the first container ocean trunk line opened by Liaoning Port Group in 2023, which fills the gap in the direct route service from Dalian Port to the western Mediterranean region, and further enhances the advantages of the direct route from Dalian Port to the European Mediterranean region. The layout of the shipping network, strengthening the energy level of the route hub, and boosting the construction of the Northeast Asia International Shipping Center, the Northeast Asia International Logistics Center, and the Northeast Sea and Land Corridor provide strong support.

The new route opened this time is operated by 11 large container ships of 14,000 TEU. Through flexible and efficient transit time, the new route can meet the market demand for direct shipment of chemical products, mechanical and electrical equipment and other goods of hinterland enterprises.

Li Xiaoguang, general manager of Dalian Container Terminal Company of Liaoning Port Group, said that after the opening of the route, it will provide a more convenient shipping channel for the trade between the Northeast region and EU countries, and effectively promote their respective advantageous industries, such as electromechanical equipment and complete automobiles. And the trade volume of spare parts, chemicals, minerals, instruments and meters, grain and frozen food has increased, making it easier for industries in the hinterland of Northeast China to participate in the international cycle.

Jia Jun, General Manager of Dalian Branch of WWL Group, said that the opening of the direct flight route has greatly shortened the transit time of goods destined for the west coast of the Mediterranean Sea. While ensuring the timeliness of cargo transportation, it can effectively reduce the comprehensive logistics cost of customers. Bring great convenience to hinterland enterprises and customers.Editor/Ma Xue