湖北荆州港盐卡港区直航日韩国际航线首航

Core Viewpoint - The launch of the direct shipping route from Jingzhou Port to Japan and South Korea marks a significant milestone for the region, enhancing logistics efficiency and reducing costs for local exporters [1][2]. Group 1: Shipping Route and Logistics Impact - The new shipping route allows for direct access to Japan and South Korea, significantly reducing logistics time by 7 days and cutting overall logistics costs by 40% [2]. - The direct route minimizes transshipment steps, improving customs efficiency and reducing risks related to cargo damage, port delays, and storage costs, thereby enhancing supply chain stability [2]. Group 2: Economic Significance and Future Projections - Jingzhou, as one of the earliest inland port cities in China, is positioned as a crucial hub for international trade, with the Salt Card Port capable of accommodating 10,000-ton ocean-going vessels and an annual throughput capacity of 10 million tons [2]. - The port's cargo throughput is projected to exceed 90 million tons by 2024, with expectations to join the "billion-ton club" by 2025, making it the fifth such port in Hubei province [4]. - In the first seven months of this year, Jingzhou's foreign trade import and export total reached 19.33 billion yuan, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 63.9%, marking a historical high for both total volume and growth rate [4].