A MALAGA shipping company has declared ‘we’re in the Champions League’ after making the city the first port of call on a new direct route from China to southern Europe.
The Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) made the statement after announcing that the ‘Dragon’ trade route will now make its first European stop in Malaga.
Departing from Ningbo, the world’s busiest cargo port, ships following the new route make stops in Shanghai, Yantian and Singapore before docking in Malaga.
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The route bypasses the Suez Canal, instead passing through South Africa’s Cape of Good Hope and enters European waters via the Strait of Gibraltar.
After making land in Malaga, ships make several stops in Italy: Genoa, La Spezia and Naples.
Following a stop in Sines in Portugal, ships make their way to the US.
The ‘Dragon’ route has been operating for over two years, but until now it has primarily prioritised the ports of Algeciras and Sines.
Malaga’s Port Authority said the move will have ‘enormous implications’ for the city, positioning it as ‘Europe’s gateway’ for trade from China.
They estimate that between 700 and 1,000 containers will be unloaded at the city’s port each week.
The voyage will take more than 30 days, with all containers bound for Spain, Portugal and much of France planned to be unloaded at Malaga.
Ships departing from China are scheduled to begin sailing the route on 18 May.
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