PTML Terminal receives first direct ship from China to Lagos

PTML Terminal has welcomed the arrival of the MV Great Cotonou, the first container-roll-on/roll-off vessel offering a direct service from Shanghai in China to Lagos.

This milestone marks a significant advancement in maritime trade between China and Nigeria, reducing transit times and enhancing logistics efficiency.

Owned by global shipping giant Grimaldi Group, which also operates PTML Terminal, the MV Great Cotonou is set to transform regional trade by offering the fastest transit time on this route just 27 days.

Speaking at the event, the Director of Grimaldi. PTML’s Managing Director, Ascanio Russo, said the arrival of the Great Cotonou at PTML represents a pivotal moment for Nigerian importers.

He said this service will significantly reduce transit times and logistics costs while offering unmatched convenience by accommodating various types of cargo in a single shipment.

Russo explained that unlike other shipping services that require transshipment at intermediary ports, this direct service ensures faster and more reliable delivery for Nigerian importers, eliminating delays and additional handling costs.

“With this innovative service, Nigerian businesses can now receive not only containerized cargo but also vehicles, including cars, vans, trucks, and project cargo, all on the same vessel. This unique multimodal transport solution presents a substantial logistical advantage, streamlining supply chains and reducing overall costs for importers,” Russo stated.

“The arrival of the Great Cotonou at PTML represents a pivotal moment for Nigerian importers. This service will significantly reduce transit times and logistics costs while offering unmatched convenience by accommodating various types of cargo in a single shipment.

“We have the infrastructure, expertise and human capital and we will offer a great service to our importers and exporters. The arrival of this ship and this new service will definitely create many more opportunities for our terminal, workers, host community and Nigeria as a whole.

“This is the largest container-roro ship coming to Africa and we have upgraded our facilities to receive this kind of ship. We have recently acquired a massive mobile-harbor crane which cost more than $10 million. Also, we had to upgrade our infrastructure, quay side with investment in excess of $5 million just to accommodate these ships.”

Representing the Grimaldi family, Andrea Grimaldi, said the goal is to create a fast and efficient trade link between Shanghai and West Africa, particularly Lagos.

He said the Great Cotonou offers a direct connection with a rapid 27-day transit, starting with Shanghai.

Grimaldi said as the demand grows, the company plans to expand its coverage to other Chinese ports and beyond.

He noted that with this groundbreaking development, Nigerian businesses and logistics operators now have access to a faster, more efficient and cost-effective trade link with China.

Grimaldi further stated that the direct Shanghai-to-Lagos route reinforces Lagos as a key hub in global maritime logistics, strengthening Nigeria’s position as a leading player in West African trade.

“As PTML Terminal continues to expand its service offerings, the launch of this direct shipping route stands as a testament to its commitment to enhancing trade, boosting economic growth, and providing world-class logistics solutions in Nigeria,” he stated.