A.P. Moller-Maersk (Maersk) launched a new ocean shipping service between China and Bangladesh to meet the growing trade demand, especially in the retail industry.

The new service, called SH3, commenced service on July 7, 2024 and adds more capacity to the ocean network between the two countries.

The SH3 rotation starts from Shanghai Port in China, making stops at Xiamen, Kaohsiung, Nansha and Tanjung Pelepas on the way to Chittagong, Bangladesh.

On its return journey to Shanghai Port, SH3 included a call at Tanjung Palapas, where long-haul routes to Europe are connected, stated a press release.

Maersk highlighted that the introduction of SH3 complemented its existing SH1, SH2, and IA7 services between China and Bangladesh.

Adjustments to SH1 and SH2 have been made to further optimize the service offerings. The combination of these services expands coverage in China, providing multiple loading cargo throughout the week from Shanghai, Nansha, and Ningbo, offering more direct shipping routes to Bangladesh.

The varied options in transit times and frequencies provided customers with increased capacity, flexibility, and efficiency in their supply chains.

Mr Wen Bing Lim, Regional Head of Intra-Asia Market at Maersk, said: “The new network accelerates the supply chain and benefits Chinese textile raw materials exporters and garment manufacturers in Bangladesh.”