A new port service-focused intelligent model, known as the Ark TaaS (Trade as a Service) model, recently began a public beta phase in Qingdao, Shandong province.

The model is a collaborative project between Qingdao Port of Shandong Port Group and Shandong Port Science and Technology Group.

The Ark TaaS model crafts six core application scenarios that center around the key stages of maritime import and export trade, comprehensively transforming the landscape of port and shipping logistics, said its developers.

The innovative features of the model incorporate intelligent services into all aspects of port management, catering to a wide range of users including shipowners, cargo owners and freight forwarders. The model's influence extends to various domains such as daily port operations, strategic business analysis, production optimization, smart office solutions and advanced logistics services.

"The Ark TaaS model is a groundbreaking achievement that aligns with the intelligent evolution of ports and shipping," said Xu Xiang, deputy general manager of Qingdao Port International Container Development Co Ltd.

"We have delved into port data and tracked customer needs to craft the Ark TaaS model centered around practical applications," said Xu, who is also a key member of the founding team of Ark intelligent shipping and portal services in Qingdao.

Chang Jian, another member of the founding team, highlighted the importance of integrating cutting-edge large-model technology with the actual operations of ports and shipping.

"We communicated with frontline operators such as drivers, shipping agents and freight forwarders to develop targeted functions like intelligent shipping valuation and navigation," said Chang.

"As one of the first users of Ark TaaS, we have experienced the convenience it brings. The model has enabled us to plan transportation routes, dispatch vehicles efficiently and ensure the safe and timely delivery of goods, providing crucial support for logistics development," said Ma Hongwei, deputy director of the logistics center of Qingdao Special Iron and Steel Co Ltd.

Wishing you prosperity, success, and happiness in the Year of the Snake.

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Wishing you prosperity, success, and happiness in the Year of the Snake.

May our partnership continue to thrive and bring mutual growth.

In 2025, Shaanxi Province in northwest China aims to strengthen its position as a key logistics hub by creating an economic circle centered around China-Europe international railway freight. This initiative will integrate logistics, trade, finance, and industry, fostering coordinated regional development and enhancing global connectivity.

In 2024, freight transportation between China and Europe via Shaanxi reached 524,000 TEUs, a 21.9% increase compared to the previous year. A major milestone was the opening of the Kazakhstan transport and logistics terminal at the Xi'an International Port, significantly boosting efficiency in shipments to Central Asia.

The province's total foreign trade turnover grew by 12.3% in 2024, with trade with five Central Asian countries increasing by 48.1%. In 2025, Shaanxi plans to further develop pilot free trade zones, enhance bonded area quality, and promote projects related to agricultural technologies under the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).

The region is also set to host major events, including the Eurasian Economic Forum, the Forum on China-Europe Freight Trains, and the China-Russia SME Forum.

Additionally, Shaanxi aims to expand digital trade, establish overseas warehouses, and tap into new markets in Central Asia, West Asia, and Russia. These initiatives are designed to solidify Shaanxi's role as a global logistics and trade hub.

In 2024, the cargo throughput of Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, located in Zhejiang Province, East China, exceeded 1.37 billion tons, securing its position as the global leader for the 16th consecutive year, according to the port administration.

The port handled 39.3 million TEUs, an 11% year-on-year increase, marking the highest growth rate in nearly seven years.

Ningbo-Zhoushan Port operates over 300 container routes, more than 250 of which are international, connecting over 600 ports in more than 200 countries and regions worldwide.

In 2024, the port also expanded its multimodal sea-rail transportation services, covering 67 administrative regions across China and processing over 1.8 million TEUs.

Ningbo-Zhoushan Port continues to strengthen its position as a key hub for global trade and logistics.