Folk Maritime has recently launched the India Gulf Express service, marking a significant milestone in maritime connectivity between the Arabian Gulf and India.
This new service is part of Folk Maritime’s strategic expansion to enhance trade routes and strengthen economic ties between the two regions.
New Liner Service Details
The India Gulf Express service connects key Arabian Gulf ports, including Dammam in Saudi Arabia and Umm Qasr in Iraq, with India’s major commercial ports, Mundra and Nhava Sheva.
This service is a critical addition to Folk Maritime’s offerings, filling a gap in the logistics supply chain and supporting the company’s mission to connect ports, industries, and world-leading liners.
The service began with its first call at Dammam on October 30, 2024, using the 1,800 TEU vessel Asterios, and is set to transition from a 14-day service to a weekly schedule by December.
Strategic Importance
The launch of the India Gulf Express service is a strategic move to enhance regional connectivity and international trade corridors, focusing on Asian, African, and European markets.
This service follows the earlier launch of the India Red Sea service in September, which connects Jeddah Islamic Port to Mundra and Nhava Sheva, further strengthening trade ties between Saudi Arabia and India.
These routes facilitate the movement of consumer goods, petrochemicals, and other essential commodities, thereby bolstering economic relations.
Economic and Strategic Impact
The new service aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to establish the Kingdom as a global logistics hub by enhancing connectivity and growth in the maritime sector.
Saudi Arabia is a significant trading partner for India, with exports to India reaching $30.20 billion in 2023, while imports from India totaled $11.6 billion.
The India Gulf Express service is expected to further boost these trade figures by providing more efficient and reliable shipping options.
In Summary,
Folk Maritime’s India Gulf Express service represents a major achievement for the company, expanding its coverage and providing customers with enhanced logistical solutions.
As the first Saudi company to offer comprehensive connectivity across all of Saudi Arabia’s ports, Folk Maritime is setting a new standard in regional maritime services.
This initiative not only strengthens trade ties but also supports the broader economic goals of both Saudi Arabia and India, fostering a more interconnected global trade network.
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