Global multipurpose operator AAL is expanding its scheduled service on the South China Sea with the addition of a second vessel.
Following strong growth in Western Australia’s mineral and petroleum industry, AAL will expand the service to a monthly rotation, with regular sailings from Shanghai (China), Busan (South Korea), Kaohsiung (Taiwan) to Fremantle as well as and Port Hedland / Dampier on inducement.
The service currently employs a single S-Class 19,000 dwt multipurpose vessel, with a maximum lifting capacity of 700 tonnes. From September, an additional S-Class will be deployed to support increased volumes of mining, oil and gas, and infrastructure cargoes.
Frank Mueller, general manager of AAL Australia, explained: “The Australian economy and fortunes of many of our local customers are benefiting from a synchronised global recovery that began in 2017; increased spending in Asia; revival of commodity prices; strong steel exports to the USA (worth roughly USD210 million a year) and low interest rates around the world.
“We plan to support this growth and help our shippers to meet their trade demands by expanding our services portfolio when needed and maintaining a constantly high level of attention and customer service."
