AD Ports Group and Zhejiang Group Establish Automotive Logistics Ecosystem

AD Ports Group and Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Investment & Operation Group Sign Strategic Agreement to Create Automotive Logistics Ecosystem

AD Ports Group, a global logistics and trade company, has signed a preliminary strategic agreement with Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Investment & Operation Group Co., Ltd. This agreement aims to establish a comprehensive automotive logistics ecosystem that connects China’s production capacities with markets in the Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa. The signing took place during the maiden voyage of the second LNG-powered PCTC vessel *UGR Zakher*, operated by United Global Ro-Ro (UGR).

Strategic Partnership to Strengthen Logistics

The agreement was signed by Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and CEO of AD Ports Group, and Mr. Tao Chengbo, Chairman of Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Investment & Operation Group. It aims to leverage the existing automotive procurement and distribution capabilities of Ningbo Zhoushan Port, as well as UGR’s services, to meet the growing demand for vehicle exports from China. The plan includes the mutual development of Ro-Ro and automotive terminals at both Ningbo Zhoushan Port and AD Ports Group’s hub locations.

The agreement also encompasses improvements aimed at accommodating larger vessels, increasing vehicle trade capacity, and reducing turnaround times at the ports. These measures are intended to enhance operational efficiency while ensuring high performance standards and improved customer service. UGR will act as the selected Ro-Ro carrier, equipped with a specialized fleet of PCTC and Ro-Ro vessels and extensive operational expertise.

Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi stated, “This preliminary strategic partnership with Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Investment & Operation Group marks a pivotal moment in our joint efforts to establish smart, connected automotive corridors across continents. With our fleet and global experience in the Ro-Ro segment, complemented by UGR’s operations, we offer immediate vessel availability and operational excellence.”

Sustainable Development and Technological Integration

The introduction of the second LNG-powered vessel in the UGR fleet not only increases cargo capacity but also demonstrates the company’s commitment to investing in a fleet that supports global decarbonization. The continuous expansion of Ro-Ro operations is a key element of AD Ports Group’s growth strategy, particularly in light of the rising demand for vehicle exports from China.

Mr. Tao Chengbo emphasized the significance of Ningbo Zhoushan Port as a major deep-water port in China, ranking first globally in cargo throughput. He views the maiden voyage of the new UGR vessel as a new chapter in the strategic partnership with AD Ports Group. The cooperation in roll-on/roll-off services is set to expand further to promote comprehensive collaboration in logistics, warehousing, green energy, and talent transfer.

Additionally, the agreement will include the integration of technologies that provide comprehensive digital platforms to enable real-time transparency, predictive analytics, and automated coordination capabilities. This is intended to improve operational performance and reduce complexity and manual effort.

The partnership aims to support the growing vehicle export supply chain and strengthen trade and logistics connections between China, the Middle East, and emerging markets in Africa and Central Asia. The strategic alliance will leverage the advanced port facilities of Zhejiang Seaport Group and the extensive regional networks and logistics capabilities of AD Ports Group.