The "Xin Shanghai," a vessel operated by China COSCO Shipping Corporation Limited, is berthed at Yangshan Port, east China's Shanghai, Dec. 18, 2024. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)
BEIJING, Dec. 18 (Xinhua) -- The newly inaugurated Chancay-Shanghai direct shipping route not only strengthens trade ties between Peru and China but also promotes shared growth across Latin America, Asia and beyond.
On Wednesday, the air at Shanghai Port was infused with the sweet fragrance of fresh fruit as a vessel from Peru's Chancay Port docked, delivering a bounty of Peruvian agricultural delights, including grapes, avocados and blueberries.
Since the launch of the Chancay Port in November, shipments between the two coastal cities have highlighted a promising future for trade across the Pacific. The direct route is expected to reduce shipping costs by at least 20 percent, generate 4.5 billion U.S. dollars in yearly revenues for Peru, and create 8,000 direct jobs.
The operation of the port, a flagship Belt and Road cooperation project between China and Peru, demonstrates the two nation's commitment to free trade amid rising trade protectionism.
Prior to the port's opening, most of Peru's exports to China had to pass through Central or North America before crossing the Pacific. The new mega port, capable of accommodating the world's largest container ships, has reduced shipping times from Peru to China to 23 days. This has streamlined the delivery of popular Chinese goods such as new energy vehicles to Peruvian consumers, while enabling Peru's agricultural products to enter the vast Chinese market at more competitive costs.
A container is lifted at Chancay Port in Peru, on Nov. 14, 2024. (Xinhua/Li Mengxin)
Chancay Port is not only a deep-water hub but is also the first smart and green port in South America. Its operational efficiency is poised to improve through the integration of advanced technologies, including intelligent loading systems and unmanned container trucks.
The new route helps facilitate cargo flows from Latin America to Asia, with projected cargo flows from Brazil, Ecuador and Colombia. It also streamlines distribution across Asia, providing faster and more cost-effective shipping services. Meanwhile, exports from Chancay to Japan, the Republic of Korea, and ASEAN nations are also expected to grow.
This expanded market access will boost Latin America's trade volume, stimulate the development of the region's logistics infrastructure, and foster technological and industrial growth, generating a significant "multiplier effect."
However, it's not all smooth sailing. Some Western media have been quick to tarnish the port's reputation, raising concerns about environmental degradation and resource dominance. This is a familiar smear tactic often used to discredit major China-built infrastructure projects abroad, driven by bias and jealousy. What these critics overlook is the strong desire of people in Peru and throughout Latin America to modernize their logistics and supply chains and drive their own economic growth.
An aerial drone photo taken on June 21, 2024 shows the Chancay Port in Peru. (Xinhua/Li Muzi)
In fact, much like the photovoltaic power plants and wind power stations that China has previously helped build across Latin America, Chancay Port stands as another testament to China's commitment to sharing its green development expertise with the global community. It reflects a broader vision of a shared future, where humanity and nature coexist for the betterment of our planet.
The port adheres to strict environmental protection standards. To preserve the region's rich biodiversity, China has established a dedicated environmental protection team on-site, opened an animal rescue center, and staffed several environmental protection roles. Numerous successful rescue operations have been carried out for penguins, seals and other birds, while the environmental conditions of wetlands, beaches and local habitats have been significantly improved, demonstrating China's strong commitment to ecological sustainability.
The launch of the port and the new direct route, as well as the recent signing of the upgraded free trade agreement protocol, are key examples of win-win cooperation between China and Peru. Marked by free trade, they will pave the way for a more enduring and prosperous future for both countries, while nurturing a shared future for the global community.
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