With world-class infrastructure and expanding global connectivity, Qingdao is accelerating its transformation from a major port city into a full-fledged international shipping hub.

In 2025, the port handled over 740 million metric tons of cargo and 32.89 million TEUs, ranking fourth and fifth globally, respectively. Its nearly 240 shipping routes connect more than 700 ports across more than 180 countries and regions — the most extensive network in northern China.

Qingdao has also led the nation in rail-sea intermodal transport for 11 consecutive years, operating 86 rail-water routes linked to 55 inland ports. The city's TIR cross-border road transport service has processed over 435 vehicle trips, the most in China.

Beyond logistics, Qingdao is strengthening its high-end shipping services. The 2025 Xinhua-Baltic Exchange index ranked Qingdao at 13th globally, with its shipping services sub-index rising to 16th — proof of growing competitiveness in finance, legal, and brokerage services.

Green shipping is also advancing. In March this year, Qingdao Port completed China's first ship-to-ship green methanol bunkering operation using a "one vessel supplying multiple ships" model, with a total bunkering volume of 2,500 tons. This makes Qingdao Port the first in northern China to offer regular, full-chain green methanol bunkering services for vessels.

The first Qingdao International Shipping Week from March 30 to April 3 gathered global industry leaders to strengthen service capabilities. By creating a premier dialogue platform, Qingdao aims to attract global shipping resources and enhance its soft power in maritime logistics.

Driven by integrated port-industry-city development, Qingdao is steadily writing a new chapter as a top global maritime hub.

Qingdao accelerates its transformation from a major port city into a full-fledged international shipping hub. [Photo/Guanhai News]