Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the transformation of Shandong Port from a "single port operator" to a "comprehensive port service provider," reflecting China's evolving role in the global supply chain from a participant to a driver and leader [1][3][24]. Group 1: Shandong Port's Role and Performance - Shandong Port is the largest port group globally, with a cargo throughput expected to exceed 1.8 billion tons in 2024 [2]. - The port handles over 44 million TEUs of container throughput, ranking second globally, and accounts for significant shares of various imports, including over one-third of China's crude oil imports [2][3]. - The port's diverse cargo throughput serves as a mirror for the macroeconomic conditions in China, with fluctuations in different cargo types reflecting changes in domestic economic activities [2][10][22]. Group 2: Growth in Specific Cargo Types - The throughput of general cargo at Shandong Port has seen a significant increase, with a 77% year-on-year growth in the first eight months of 2025, reaching nearly 20 million tons [5]. - The port has expanded its general cargo routes, opening nine new routes and enhancing six existing ones, primarily targeting markets in Africa, North America, and Europe [5][6]. - China's foreign direct investment reached $192.2 billion in 2024, marking an 8.4% increase, indicating a strong trend of Chinese enterprises investing abroad [5][6]. Group 3: Crude Oil and Economic Relations - Shandong Port's crude oil imports account for over one-third of China's total, with a processing capacity of over 237 million tons annually [10][11]. - The port's crude oil throughput has been affected by global geopolitical events, leading to fluctuations in demand and pricing, with a 2.9% year-on-year decline in crude oil imports in the first eight months of 2025 [11][12]. - The transition to renewable energy sources is impacting crude oil demand, with a significant increase in new energy vehicle exports from the port [12][22]. Group 4: Steel Exports and Infrastructure Development - Shandong Port's iron ore imports constitute nearly one-fourth of China's total, but the demand is facing pressure due to slowing domestic infrastructure investment [14][16]. - Conversely, steel exports from Shandong Port have surged, with a 19.2% increase in steel exports in the first half of the year, driven by infrastructure projects in emerging markets [17][18][19]. - The port's strategic location and capabilities are facilitating the export of steel to regions with growing infrastructure needs, such as Africa and Southeast Asia [17][19]. Group 5: Future Directions and Strategic Shifts - Shandong Port is evolving into a comprehensive service provider, offering integrated logistics solutions and financial services to enhance competitiveness in the global market [24][25]. - The port is actively participating in the global supply chain by designing logistics solutions for overseas projects and collaborating with various enterprises to optimize supply chain efficiency [24][25]. - The ongoing transformation aligns with national strategies to enhance China's competitive edge in international trade and logistics [25][26].
码头上的全球贸易