AD Ports Group and Ningbo Zhoushan Port Group to Establish Automotive Logistics Ecosystem

Abu dhabi: AD Ports Group and Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Investment and Operation Group Co., Ltd. (Ningbo Zhoushan Port Group) have entered into a preliminary strategic agreement to establish a comprehensive automotive logistics ecosystem. This initiative aims to connect Chinese manufacturing capabilities with Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and African markets through integrated terminal operations, dedicated fleet services, and multimodal transport solutions. According to Emirates News Agency, the agreement was signed by Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, and Tao Chengbo, Chairman of Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Investment and Operation Group Co. Ltd. The ceremony also marked 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. The agreement leverages the automotive sourcing of Ningbo Zhoushan Port and distribution capabilities of UGR, addressing the g rowing demand for vehicle exports from China. Plans include developing Ro-Ro and automotive terminals at Ningbo Zhoushan Port and AD Ports Group's hub locations, enhancing vessel accommodation, increasing vehicle handling capacity, and reducing turnaround times at the ports. UGR will serve as the designated Ro-Ro carrier, equipped with a specialised PCTC and Ro-Ro vessel fleet. UGR already operates Ro-Ro services connecting China with terminals in the Middle East, Asia, and the Mediterranean. Al Shamisi emphasized the partnership as a pivotal moment in establishing smart, connected automotive corridors across continents. Chengbo highlighted Ningbo Zhoushan Port's status as a key deep-water port in China and a hub for world trade. The maiden voyage of UGR Zakher at Ningbo Zhoushan Port signifies a new phase in strategic partnership, with plans for expanded cooperation in logistics, warehousing, green energy, and talent exchange. The UGR Zakher, boasting a capacity of 7,000 Car Equivalent Units (CEUs), mirro rs its sister ship, UGR Al Samha, acquired earlier this year. Both vessels use LNG, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing energy and operational efficiencies. Technology integration is also part of the plan, with comprehensive digital platforms providing real-time visibility, predictive analytics, and automated coordination capabilities. These enhancements aim to improve operational performance and reduce complexity. Additionally, synergies between sea and inland rail routes will be explored to create a comprehensive multimodal transport network through the Middle Corridor, offering alternative routing options for China-Central Asia-Europe trade flows.