Coastal GA News

The Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) has broadened its links with West India by introducing the Ocean Network Express' (ONE) service, which is expected to enhance trade relations. Officials anticipate this expansion will stimulate increased trade in electronics, perishables, textiles, and chemicals between the two regions.

In a press release issued by the GPA, Griff Lynch, the organization's president and CEO, said: "ONE’s West India North America service recognizes a growing shift in global sourcing, with more manufacturers adding operations on the subcontinent. With the world’s largest population, India also represents a tremendous market opportunity for U.S. exporters. The Port of Savannah is strategically positioned to take advantage of this trend, providing more connections to India for supply chain flexibility."

The same press release revealed that in May 2024, ONE's new service will provide the GPA with 10 services via the Suez Canal. Nine of these services reach the Indian subcontinent, bringing the total ocean carrier services count at the Port of Savannah to 37 - a record among ports spanning from mid-Atlantic to Gulf of Mexico. According to data from World Trade Organization's World Trade Outlook and Statistics, India plays a significant role in global trade with an export volume of around $453 billion for merchandise and an annual growth rate of 15 percent in 2022. The upcoming ONE's West India North America (WIN) service will establish a weekly route connecting Hazira, Nhava Sheva, and Mundra to Savannah. It will further extend to Bin Qasim in Pakistan, Damietta, Algeciras, and Jeddah - creating additional links to Mediterranean destinations through combined services.

Apramapar Singh, general manager of India Marketing at ONE India was quoted in another GPA press release saying: "At ONE, we have been committed to the India market since day one and the new WIN is another milestone for our business. Hazira container terminal is a gateway to the industrially vibrant belt of South Gujarat, North Maharashtra and Central India." ONE also confirmed that their new service will utilize a fleet of nine vessels.