ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd (ZIM) and Hai An Transport and Stevedoring Joint-stock Company (HATS) have announced the launch of Lotus Link, a joint venture to operate domestic and regional shipping services in Vietnam.
In a joint statement, ZIM and Hai An noted that Lotus Link would bring together the global, regional and domestic expertise and coverage of both ocean liners.
Lotus Link launch service in March
Lotus Link plans to launch its first service in March, deploying Vietnamese-flagged vessels to serve both local and international trades.
The joint venture plans to expand its presence in Ho Chi Minh City and Danang later this year.
Lotus Link is headquartered in Haiphong and headed by Huy Dang Quy.
"The joint venture will serve the major ports in Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh, Danang and Haiphong) as well as satellite provinces and its hinterlands — where currently direct access to international and domestic shipping services is limited — thereby benefiting Vietnamese manufacturers, importers and exporters," the announcement said.
It added that as an extension of the shipping services provided to its customers, the joint venture should also provide landside logistics services such as trucking and customs brokerage services.
HATS, headquartered in Haiphong with offices across Vietnam, has been actively involved in domestic shipping in Vietnam for over 10 years and is today one of the largest liners in Vietnam.
In addition, HATS is engaged in a wide range of marine and logistics-related activities, including terminal operations, offshore services, shipping agency container depot operations and warehousing.
"This is a significant development for both companies. It is especially meaningful for Hai An as it celebrates its 10th anniversary in domestic shipping this year and plans to expand its regional operation. Our JV with ZIM will offer more choices for Vietnam importers and exporters and help save in logistics costs," said Mark Vu, HATS general director.
Abraham Elias, ZIM Vietnam country manager, also welcomed the joint venture with HAI AN — along with the positive prospects for shipping in Vietnam.
"We are extremely pleased to partner with Hai An, a key player in domestic trade, on this milestone venture. With the rapid expansion of manufacturing activities to satellite provinces, this JV provides ZIM with the operational flexibility to extend its reach and expand the scope of services offered to its customers," Elias said.
"We hope to support the development of industries by providing valuable access to international markets through ZIM’s global coverage," the ZIM executive added.
