Containers are loaded onto the vessel berthed at Toumen port area before shipping to Tanzania. [Photo/the official news website of Taizhou]

Taizhou Port in East China's Zhejiang province launched its first direct shipping service to East Africa on Dec 8, with the Wan Tiao Lu Gan En vessel bound for Zanzibar Port in Tanzania.

The shipment included the vessel as cargo, along with 134 containers of goods valued at about 35 million yuan ($4.95 million), mainly sourced from Yiwu. Given strong African demand for Zhejiang-made products, Taizhou's exports to Tanzania previously involved multiple transit stops and took about two months. The new direct route shortens transit time to less than a month, significantly improving transport efficiency, reducing logistics costs, and enhancing the competitiveness of "Made in Zhejiang" in African markets.

To ensure a safe and efficient maiden voyage, Taizhou Port conducted advance planning, facility checks, and preventive maintenance. The port optimized cargo entry, storage, and loading procedures, clarified onsite responsibilities, and coordinated with customs, maritime, and border inspection authorities.

The launch of this direct service reflects Taizhou Port's deeper involvement in Belt and Road cooperation and greater integration into global shipping networks. Moving forward, the port plans to expand service capacity, strengthen collaboration, and broaden its route coverage, contributing to regional open-economy development.