In April, seven medium-sized Asian shipping lines will launch a new joint service to strengthen trade with Asia, connecting China, South Korea, and Mexico’s west coast. This initiative responds to growing trade exchange and marks these companies’ first venture into Latin America’s west coast.
Details of the China-Mexico joint service
The participating companies include Emirates Shipping Line (ESL), KMTC, Regional Container Lines (RCL), SeaLead, Sinokor, Sinotrans, and T.S. Lines.
The itinerary will cover the ports of Shanghai, Qingdao, Busan, and Manzanillo, with a full rotation of 49 days. Each shipping line will contribute a vessel with a capacity of 2,500 to 3,000 TEUs, with the first departure scheduled for April 30 from Shanghai.
This service will operate under different names depending on the company: ‘MEX’ for T.S. Lines, ‘RFL’ for RCL, and ‘AMX’ for SeaLead.
Key factors driving trade with Asia
- Mexico, the U.S.’s main trading partner: In 2023, Mexico surpassed China as the United States’ largest trading partner, driven by nearshoring and reduced shipping costs and times.
- Chinese investments in Mexico: Chinese companies have significantly increased investments in Mexico, leveraging its strategic location and the benefits of the USMCA agreement.
- Demand for alternative supply chains: The search for more resilient trade routes has reinforced the importance of trade with Asia in the global landscape.
While this new connection strengthens trade with Asia, political uncertainty could pose challenges, especially if Donald Trump returns to the White House and imposes new tariffs. However, this joint service reflects a continued commitment to expanding maritime trade between Asia and Latin America.
Sources:
Chambers, S., & Chambers, S. (2025, 19 marzo). Seven Asian carriers link up to make debut Mexico call. Splash247. https://splash247.com/seven-asian-carriers-link-up-to-make-debut-mexico-call/
Siete líneas navieras lanzarán en abril servicio conjunto en la ruta China- Costa Oeste de México. (s. f.). MundoMaritimo. https://www.mundomaritimo.cl/noticias/siete-lineas-navieras-lanzaran-en-abril-servicio-conjunto-en-la-ruta-china-costa-oeste-de-mexico
