Image Credits : Business Standard
A new liner service has been introduced, connecting Jeddah Islamic Port to the Indian ports of Mundra and Nhava Sheva, a move expected to strengthen maritime trade routes between Saudi Arabia and India. The service, launched by the global shipping line Container Shipping Service (CSS), aims to enhance shipping efficiency and reduce transit times for goods travelling between these key ports.
The inaugural service will operate on a weekly basis, offering a direct shipping route that links the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent. With growing trade between the two regions, the new service is anticipated to support various industries, including automotive, textiles, and chemicals, by providing faster and more reliable shipping options.
This development aligns with both Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which focuses on economic diversification and enhancing the kingdom’s role as a global logistics hub, and India’s efforts to modernize its port infrastructure. The addition of this service is seen as a crucial step in bolstering bilateral trade, which has seen a steady rise in recent years.
The ports of Mundra and Nhava Sheva, two of India’s busiest and most strategic shipping hubs, are expected to benefit from increased container traffic due to the new service. Mundra Port, in particular, has emerged as a key player in facilitating trade between India and the Middle East, while Nhava Sheva continues to be the largest container port in India.
Industry experts have welcomed the new service, noting that it will improve supply chain connectivity and provide exporters and importers with greater flexibility in managing their shipments. As global trade dynamics continue to evolve, the introduction of such routes plays a pivotal role in streamlining logistics and fostering economic growth across regions.