TCIT welcomes the first vessel of the ZSL/PELICAN service – expanding global connections

A New Milestone

On the morning of February 8, 2025, the Tan Cang - Cai Mep International Terminal (TCIT) held a grand ceremony to welcome the first vessel of the ZSL/PELICAN service, operated by ZIM and MSC. This event marks a significant step forward in TCIT’s collaboration with leading global shipping lines and opens new opportunities for Vietnam to strengthen its trade connections, particularly with the U.S. Gulf region.

ZSL/PELICAN Service – A Strategic Shipping Solution

The ZSL/PELICAN service is jointly operated by two major shipping lines, ZIM and MSC, aiming to provide a direct connection between Vietnam and the U.S. Gulf region. The detailed port rotation includes: TCIT – Xiamen – Yantian – Pusan – Lazaro Cardenas – Panama Canal – Houston – Mobile – Tampa – Miami – Suez Canal – TCIT.

The first vessel calling at TCIT under this service is M/V Ningbo, one of ZIM’s modern ships, with a capacity of 108,574 DWT, a length of 334 meters, and the ability to carry up to 8,440 TEUs. This new service is expected to optimize logistics costs, enhance shipping efficiency, and facilitate Vietnam’s import-export activities.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Kim Jong Eup, General Director of TCIT, emphasized: "TCIT being chosen as the destination for the ZSL/PELICAN service is clear evidence of our service quality, operational capacity, and ability to meet the demands of major shipping lines. We are committed to continuous innovation, leveraging advanced technology to enhance service quality and ensure a sustainable supply chain.”

Long-Term Collaborative Values

According to Mr. Fernando De La Rosa, General Director of ZIM Vietnam, the new service not only strengthens connectivity between Vietnam and the U.S. but also enhances Vietnam’s position in the global trade market. "We believe the ZSL/PELICAN service will bring great benefits to exporters, reducing transit times and improving the competitiveness of Vietnamese goods in the U.S. market. This service is part of ZIM’s long-term strategy to develop and expand its global shipping network.”

On behalf of Saigon Newport Corporation, Mr. Bui Van Quy, Deputy General Director of Saigon Newport Corporation, stated: We highly appreciate the partnership with ZIM and MSC in selecting TCIT as a key port in their global service network. This demonstrates the strong growth potential of the Cai Mep - Thi Vai port cluster in the international logistics system. We are confident that with the sustainable cooperation between TCIT and major shipping lines, Cai Mep will continue to grow, making significant contributions to global trade and Vietnam’s economic development.”

This service is particularly crucial as trade between Vietnam and the U.S. continues to expand. The U.S. remains one of Vietnam’s largest export markets, with increasing demand for goods transportation, particularly in textiles, electronics, and agricultural products. A direct shipping route will help Vietnamese businesses reduce costs, improve delivery efficiency, and enhance their competitiveness.

TCIT’s Sustainable Development Strategy

With the goal of becoming one of the leading deep-water container ports in the region, TCIT continuously innovates and upgrades its infrastructure to meet the increasing demands of the market. TCIT’s development strategy focuses on three key areas:

1. Applying Advanced Technology – TCIT is implementing digitalization and automation solutions to improve port efficiency, reduce vessel waiting times, and optimize logistics processes.

1. Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development – Investments in green port systems, renewable energy, and CO₂ emission reductions are central to TCIT’s long-term growth strategy.

1. Strengthening International Cooperation – Partnerships with leading shipping lines such as MSC and ZIM, along with strategic allies, enhance TCIT’s position in the global logistics network.

A Strong Step in Maritime Connectivity

The arrival of the first vessel under the ZSL/PELICAN service marks a significant milestone for TCIT and reflects the growth trajectory of Vietnam’s logistics industry in an era of deepening global integration. Expanding direct shipping routes like ZSL/PELICAN will allow Vietnam to maximize its geographical advantages, boost trade, and strengthen the competitiveness of its export sector.

TCIT is progressively affirming its role as a vital link in the global supply chain. With relentless efforts to enhance service quality, invest in infrastructure, and foster strategic collaborations with major shipping lines, TCIT is poised to remain one of the top deep-water ports in the region, contributing positively to Vietnam’s economic and trade development.