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Pakistan gains direct access to Europe with HMM’s INX service

Pakistan gains direct access to Europe with HMM’s INX service
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January 25, 2025 (MLN): South Korean shipping company HMM has launched the India North Europe Express (INX) weekly shipping service in Pakistan, offering the South Asian country direct access to Europe.

The service, introduced in partnership with Ocean Network Express (ONE) container liner and Pakistan’s United Marine Agencies (UMA), will facilitate the timely and efficient delivery of Pakistani goods to European ports and beyond, as stated by HMM.

This development comes as part of Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen trade and establish international partnerships to expand its maritime activities, according to Pakistani officials.

The initiative aims to streamline logistics, improve connectivity, and foster economic growth in the region, according to the press release.

“Our country is rich in marine, fisheries, mineral, and energy resources, which can generate additional revenues,” said Vice Admiral Faisal Abbasi, Pakistan Navy commander in Karachi.

He also highlighted that Pakistan is strategically located at the crossroads of three key regions: the gateway to Central Asia, Southwest Asia, and the Arabian Gulf.

He explained that sea lines of communication (SLOCs) enable countries to extend beyond their land borders, providing access to and facilitating the exchange of raw materials and trade goods.

“Today, as much as 75% of international trade takes place over water and same is expected to continue growing in foreseeable future,” Vice Admiral Abbasi added.

The service, launched at a ceremony in the port city of Karachi, is set to begin operations on February 5.

It will provide a direct link between western India and northern Europe, according to HMM.

The inaugural voyage will depart from Karachi, following the port rotation: Karachi–Hazira–Mundra–Nhava Sheva–Colombo–London Gateway–Rotterdam–Hamburg–Antwerp–Karachi.

“The INX service offers a strong, direct maritime connection between Western India and Northern Europe, with a turnaround time of just 11 weeks using a fleet of 6,000 TEU container ships,” said Sohail Shams, CEO of United Marine Agencies (UMA), the HMM agent in Pakistan.

This development not only expands the maritime service portfolio in the region but also enhances opportunities for regional trade and global transshipment through this strategic hub, he added.

He stated that UMA is committed to delivering exceptional shipping services and plays a vital role in strengthening Pakistan’s maritime trade by representing leading global shipping lines and managing cargo to destinations worldwide.

“This service signifies more than just a route, it represents progress, innovation, and the shared commitment of our global partners to simplify and enhance international trade,” Sohail said.

 This strategic network underscores the significance of Karachi as a vital trade hub and gateway to global markets, he added.

Yang Jungmo, a senior HMM official for Southwest Asia, also spoke at Wednesday’s launch, emphasizing the importance of the INX service for global trade and reaffirming the company’s commitment to providing reliable and efficient shipping solutions.

Earlier this month, Dubai-based logistics giant DP World, in partnership with Pakistan’s National Logistics Corporation, launched a feeder service to transport shipping containers from Dubai to Karachi, according to Pakistani state media.

Additionally, Pakistani officials and DP World have finalized the terms for a freight corridor project connecting Karachi Port to the Pipri Marshalling yard in southern Pakistan.

Since avoiding a default in June 2023, Pakistan has been navigating a challenging path to economic recovery.

Last year, the South Asian country secured a new $7 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and has been actively seeking trade and investment opportunities to restore its economy.

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Posted on: 2025-01-25T20:09:46+05:00