The Qingdao Port Automatic Terminal Phase II is closer to being fully operational after two berths passed inspection tests, boosting the Port of Qingdao’s planned upgrade.
In a statement, the Port said the two berths were put into trial operation in November 2019 as part of a project to utilise exponential and environmentally friendly technologies to improve operations.
How does Qingdao compare with the other major ports in China?
Announced in November 2019, the Qingdao Port Automatic Terminal Phase II integrates 5G automation technology and hydrogen-powered rail cranes in a bid to become the most advanced port in China.
The two berths are critical parts of the upgrade and will increase the Port’s throughput by 1.7 million TEU a year. It will also include nine double trolley quayside bridges, 38 high-speed rail cranes and 45 automatic guided vehicles.
“By constantly optimizing the operation process,” the Port said, “improving the system functions, and making full use of the advantages of science and technology, Qingdao Port continuously improves the service capacity and operation efficiency.
In addition, the Port said the new berths and the upgrade will lead to the time ships spend in harbour will be “greatly shortened”.
Earlier in July the Port unveiled the Dongjiakou Port Area which it claimed will save approximately $14 million in logistics costs for companies based around.
