Cooperation with Nordic enterprises in the field of logistics has opened up great opportunities for the Vietnamese logistics industry to develop, moving towards green logistics.

Opening up great opportunities in logistics cooperation

At the Europe-America Logistics Forum held on the afternoon of September 23 in Ho Chi Minh City, Mr. Richard Mellgren - Senior Director of Business Development, Sales and Marketing - Gothenburg Port informed that recently, within the framework of the Vietnam - Sweden Forum held on the occasion of the 55th anniversary of Vietnam - Sweden diplomatic relations, Gothenburg Port (Sweden) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Hai Phong Department of Industry and Trade and Saigon Newport Corporation (SNP) on logistics cooperation.

Mr. Richard Mellgren speaks at the Europe-America Logistics Forum (Photo: Vietnam Trade Office in Sweden)

The Port of Gothenburg is currently the largest port in the Nordic countries with more than 11,000 ship calls each year from more than 140 destinations worldwide, and is the only port in Sweden capable of receiving the largest, most modern ocean-going container ships. Gothenburg handles nearly 30% of Sweden's foreign trade, including 39 million tons of cargo each year.

Therefore, the newly signed MOUs are considered a memorable event because they will strengthen cooperation to develop logistics services between businesses and localities on both sides, contributing to increasing the import and export turnover of Vietnam with Sweden in particular and with the European region in general.

Mr. Richard Mellgren shared that the mission and vision of the Port of Gothenburg is to ensure that Swedish industry can access the global market. To achieve this, the Port of Gothenburg strives to remain competitive, providing efficient and sustainable transport and logistics solutions for industry.

As the largest port in Northern Europe, the Port of Gothenburg currently provides services for a wide range of vessels, including container ships over 20,000 TEU, RO/RO vessels, tankers, bulk carriers and cruise ships. Currently, the Port of Gothenburg handles around 57% of Sweden's import and export containers. The shipping network covers both foreign markets and nearby markets in the region.

The Port of Gothenburg is also focusing on providing greener fuels to its ships and has implemented solutions such as supplying ships with shore-based electricity while at anchor, which helps to reduce emissions.

A key element in achieving the overall sustainability goal is the Railport Scandinavia system, which connects the Port of Gothenburg to cities across Sweden via the rail network. Currently, there are 70 trains a day transporting containers, trailers and bulk cargo, with 60% of the containers moving through the port being transported by rail. The system also links Gothenburg with Oslo and the Norwegian hinterland. The Port of Gothenburg is also developing intermodal connections to combine sea and rail transport between Sweden and Finland.

Expectations to strengthen Vietnam - Sweden logistics cooperation

Mr. Richard Mellgren said that the Port of Gothenburg is always looking for direct connections with other ports around the world. Vietnam is a growing and increasingly important market in the Southeast Asian region.

“On the occasion of the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Sweden, we are delighted that the first direct shipping route between Gothenburg and Vung Tau will be launched in the next few months. This will be a big step forward, and we hope to take advantage of this opportunity together to support the industry in making the most of the new service that the world’s largest container shipping line, MSC, is implementing. In addition, the sea transport solutions between Vietnam and Sweden have existed for many years and continue to operate,” said Mr. Richard Mellgren.

About two years ago, the Port of Gothenburg identified Vietnam as a key market for development.

“We are delighted to have the opportunity to cooperate with Hai Phong Department of Industry and Trade and Saigon Newport Corporation through the recently signed MOUs. Together, we will share best practices and expertise to develop the market,” said Richard Mellgren.

The northern region of Vietnam is developing strongly and investing heavily in port infrastructure. The Port of Gothenburg aims to one day have a direct connection between Hai Phong and Gothenburg. Both regions are focusing on sustainability, with fossil fuel-free operations, renewable fuel options and investment in environmentally friendly shipping vessels, combined with rail transport solutions and final delivery by electric trucks. This is expected to create green corridors connecting the two countries in the future.

Source: Industry and Trade Newspaper