Cochin : DP World’s International Container Transhipment Terminal (ICTT) at Cochin will host a new weekly mainline service called, ‘SIG’ operated by ONE Line to strengthen the India-Southeast Asia and the Middle East trade link.   DP World Cochin flagged off the new service by welcoming the first vessel, M.V. Safeen Prism, on 7th December 2023. 

The new weekly service has four vessels deployed with a capacity of 2800 TEUs providing direct connectivity between the Middle East and South East Asia. This new service will further provide Cochin and its hinterland with access to destinations in the Far East, Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Latin America, United States West Coast, Canada, and vice-versa.

The service covers a port rotation between Singapore – Nhava Sheva – Mundra – Dammam – Jebel Ali – Cochin – Colombo – Singapore.

Commenting on the launch of the SIG service, Ravinder Johal, COO Ports & Terminals, DP World Subcontinent and MENA region said, “The launch of our SIG service marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to strengthen India’s connectivity to global trade. A pioneering initiative, SIG highlights our commitment to enhancing supply chain efficiencies, building direct trade routes, and supporting economic growth. With this service, Exim businesses will be able to explore newer markets across Southeast Asia and the Middle East."

The launch of SIG will help enhance DP World Cochin position as a preferred gateway to south of India as it offers greater connectivity to ports in Europe, the Mediterranean, China, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. Presently, nearly 50% of both export and import cargo is directly connected from DP World Cochin, resulting in faster transit times, seamless connectivity, and better cost efficiencies for customers.