The East-West Shipping Network Initiative aims to enhance the reliability and efficiency of global trade transportation by reducing the number of ports along major shipping routes, optimizing shipping services, and introducing flexible regional shipping lines. Set to officially operate in February 2025, the initiative will effectively strengthen the resilience and responsiveness of supply chains.
CMA CGM has launched a new route, ALGA 2, connecting Spain and Algeria with weekly sailings. This new service optimizes transport efficiency between the main ports of both countries, enhances the quality of logistics services, and supports the development of bilateral trade.
COSCO Shipping has launched a weekly multipurpose route connecting major ports in China and Brazil. Leveraging the advantages of large pulp carriers, this route aims to meet the urgent shipping demands of customers on the east coast of South America, establishing a maritime fast track and promoting China-Brazil bilateral trade. The fastest transit time can reach 30 days. The service will improve the efficiency of transportation between the two countries.
This article systematically reviews the major global shipping routes and their corresponding port information, focusing on key regions such as Northeast Asia, the U.S. West Coast, the U.S. East Coast, Canada, Australia, Europe, and the Middle East. It provides valuable insights for international logistics practitioners.
The container capacity on the Far East to East Coast route is continuously expanding, with 9 regular lines now and a 36% increase in annual trade capability compared to last year. Major shipping companies are reshaping the market landscape through new routes and smaller vessel operations, reflecting the growing market demand.
COSCO SHIPPING Lines launched the WSA5 route, connecting Asia and the west coast of South America. With the Port of Chancay in Peru as its hub, it covers key ports in multiple countries. This route shortens transit times, expands coverage, and optimizes services, promoting the growth of China-Latin America trade, optimizing commodity structure, and improving supply chain efficiency. It represents a crucial step in the construction of the New Asia-Latin America Land-Sea Trade Corridor, contributing to building a strong trading nation and a strong shipping nation.
The newly introduced East-West shipping network in February 2025 will enhance global trade efficiency by reducing port calls, improving shuttle services, and utilizing advanced transshipment hubs, providing businesses with a faster and more reliable transportation experience.
To enhance the reliability of the Canada (CAE) service, a comprehensive revision of the route rotation and schedule has been implemented. The new route optimizes port sequence, reduces transit times, and provides more accurate estimated arrival and departure times. The maiden voyage vessel is CMA CGM PARANAGUA 532W, expected to arrive in Antwerp on August 7th. This upgrade aims to provide customers with more reliable and efficient logistics services.
The international shipping market is affected by the trade war, leading to a short-term increase in freight rates. Shipping companies are adjusting routes to mitigate risks. Businesses need to closely monitor policies, diversify procurement sources, optimize supply chains, and strengthen risk management to adapt to market changes. The trade war introduces volatility and uncertainty, requiring proactive strategies for businesses involved in international trade and shipping to navigate the evolving landscape and minimize potential negative impacts on their operations and profitability.
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has restarted pandemic-era diamond-level freight rates, raising prices to $8,000 (West Coast) and $10,000 (East Coast), reflecting the current tight capacity in the shipping market and rising demand. Industry insiders are concerned about further increases in freight rates, prompting importers to reassess their supply chain strategies.
