At 18:30 on July 25, the Liberian-flagged vessel "Ambition" docked at the Guandong Terminal of Yangshan Port, where it will handle 11,000 TEUs. This milestone marks the year's total international voyages through the Yangshan port area exceeding 6,000 vessel calls.
Separate data indicates that since the start of 2024, the Yangshan border inspection station has processed over 146,000 entry-exit (port) personnel and efficiently handled crew change procedures for more than 8,500 deep-sea mariners. Port shipping activity and vessel turnaround efficiency remain among the highest globally.
A notable trend this year is the accelerating optimization of vessel types calling at Yangshan, characterized by two clear directions: larger cargo volumes and lower carbon emissions. The scale effect of larger vessels is becoming evident, with a rising number of ships unloading or loading over 10,000 TEUs per voyage, maximizing the advantages of large-scale and intensive port operations. In the first half of 2024, Yangshan Port's total container throughput surpassed 15 million TEUs for the first time, setting another half-year record.
On the green refueling front, Yangshan Port is enhancing its clean energy supply system for ships using LNG and methanol. Refueling services have expanded from berthed vessels to those anchored in port waters, effectively cutting refueling costs for non-berthed ships. By aligning with the global trend toward green shipping, Yangshan's stable and high-quality green refueling services are solidifying its international competitiveness and global shipping appeal.
To adapt to the new normal of high vessel density, fast-paced operations, and diverse service demands, the Yangshan border inspection station operates 24/7, offering immediate inspection for arriving vessels. It continuously refines customs clearance services to meet evolving port development and shipping industry needs, actively supporting Shanghai International Shipping Center's efforts to enhance its hub capabilities.
In terms of streamlining port logistics, the inspection station has planned dedicated access lanes and regulated routes for vehicles, crew members, and cargo. This ensures the orderly and efficient flow of people, vehicles, and goods. Concurrently, intelligent security checkpoints at terminal gates have been established, sharing inspection results with customs to implement contactless checks, zero-wait clearance, and remote verification, significantly reducing time for crew baggage and boarding inspections. This achieves a dual boost in port efficiency and security control.
For foreign crew members requiring shift changes, the station standardizes procedures for temporary entry permits and tracks crew whereabouts throughout their port stay to prevent overstays. It also proactively supports key scenarios like new vessel maiden voyages and fuel bunkering, providing green channels for trainee seafarers to board for observation and for business exchanges between Chinese and foreign shipping companies, nurturing maritime talent and promoting international cooperation.
Regarding ancillary shipping services, the border inspection authority maintains national security while precisely leveraging policy benefits. It offers safe and convenient boarding and mooring support for ship repair, marine supplies, and waste disposal. This continuously optimized port business environment allows support enterprises to share in the benefits of port expansion, transforming the port from a simple cargo transit point into a comprehensive development hub for industrial clustering, value creation, and growth driver cultivation.