Maersk, a global leader in integrated container logistics, achieved a significant milestone as the large methanol-enabled vessel “Astrid Mærsk” made its first green methanol bunkering with simultaneous cargo and bunkering operations at Yangshan port in Shanghai, China. This historic event, a first of its kind in China, was made possible through a partnership with the Shanghai International Port Group. As Maersk commemorates its 100th anniversary of serving China’s foreign trade, this achievement not only underscores the company’s commitment to decarbonizing the maritime industry but also pays tribute to its longstanding collaboration with partners and stakeholders in servicing Chinese international trade.

For a century, Maersk’s dedication to facilitating global supply chains has been the driving force behind its active contribution to China’s foreign trade, marked by substantial investments in infrastructure, services, and people. As the company continues to pioneer sustainable practices, the deployment of large methanol-enabled vessels in the Asia-Europe trade demonstrates both its rich heritage and the onset of an exciting new era built on robust partnerships. Recognizing that the success of the energy transition requires collective effort, Maersk is collaborating closely with dedicated partners like SIPG, customers, industry peers, and regulators to push the boundaries and make green ocean transport the preferred choice.

Vincent Clerc, chief executive officer of A.P. Moller-Maersk, emphasised the significance of this initiative in highlighting Shanghai’s readiness and commitment to environmental leadership, setting a precedent for other ports in China and around the world to follow suit.

Jinshan Gu, chairman of Shanghai International Port Group, expressed excitement about the partnership with Maersk and their joint pursuit of ambitious decarbonisation goals, noting the milestone achieved with the first green methanol bunkering at Shanghai port, which strengthens the port’s position as a major regional hub for green methanol fuel bunkering.

Silvia Ding, managing director of Maersk Greater China, reflected on Maersk’s exceptional 100-year journey supporting trade in and out of China and highlighted the significance of bringing ‘Astrid Mærsk’ to Shanghai for the first green methanol bunkering. Ding underscored Maersk’s commitment to sustainability and its dedication to leading the way in decarbonizing global logistics for a greener future.

“Astrid Mærsk” sailed from Yokohama, Japan, to Shanghai after its naming ceremony in early April, marking the second of Maersk’s 18 large methanol-enabled vessels scheduled for delivery between 2024 and 2025.

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