Qingdao, Dec. 10 (Xinhua) – How did China's automated terminals rise to global prominence? This question was explored in an exclusive interview with Zhang Liangang, Chief Scientist of Shandong Port Group.

At Shandong Port's Qingdao Automated Terminal, operations run smoothly with minimal human intervention. As China's first fully domestically developed and independently operated automated terminal, and Asia's first truly fully automated container terminal, its progress reflects China's journey from technological infancy to global leadership in automated port operations.

Why are countries worldwide investing in automated terminals? How does China's approach differ from Western models, and what lessons does it offer globally? Zhang Liangang addressed these questions in detail.

**The Global Push for Automated Terminals** Automated terminals represent a critical evolution from traditional to modern ports. They address challenges such as harsh working conditions, high labor intensity, and safety risks while enhancing operational stability, cargo handling quality, and customer experience. The demand for automation and smart technologies also drives growth in related industries. Globally, automation is being actively explored in container, bulk, and general cargo terminals.

Key features of automated terminals include: - **Advanced Automation & Intelligence**: Integrated systems like ITOS (Intelligent Terminal Operating System) and AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) optimize efficiency. - **Green & Low-Carbon Development**: Adoption of clean energy (solar, wind, hydrogen) reduces carbon emissions and fossil fuel dependency. - **Resource Optimization**: Smart scheduling minimizes cargo dwell time and maximizes yard space utilization, cutting costs and boosting sustainability.

**China's Unique Development Path** While Western nations pioneered semi-automated terminals in the 1980s (e.g., Rotterdam’s 1993 automated container terminal), China began its automation efforts only around 2011 in Xiamen. Despite late entry and initial technological gaps, China leveraged state support and its comprehensive industrial ecosystem—the world’s only with all UN-classified industrial sectors—to rapidly innovate. Breakthroughs in AI, big data, and 5G accelerated progress, enabling China to match or surpass Western advancements within a decade.

**China’s Current Standing & Distinctive Edge** China’s automated terminals now lead globally in: 1. **Technology**: AI, IoT, and 5G enable smart dispatch, monitoring, and maintenance. 2. **Efficiency**: Qingdao Terminal set a world record (62.62 natural containers/hour per crane in May 2024). 3. **Scale**: As of June 2024, China hosts 23 automated container terminals and 29 bulk cargo terminals—the highest globally. 4. **Sustainability**: Green energy adoption and energy-saving systems underscore eco-friendly practices.

**Global Implications** China’s success demonstrates how cost barriers (once labeling automation as "elitist") can be overcome through scalable designs and localized solutions. Its technologies, exported via equipment manufacturing and system integration, now aid global trade efficiency. Moreover, China’s emphasis on green, intelligent terminals sets benchmarks for reducing carbon footprints and enhancing ecological sustainability worldwide.

**About Zhang Liangang** As Shandong Port Group’s Chief Scientist, Zhang spearheaded China’s first autonomous terminal and 5G smart port projects. His team’s innovations have broken multiple world records, earning them the title "Model of the Era" in 2020. Zhang’s work epitomizes how industrial internet applications can revolutionize port operations.