MSC launches premium 'Jade' Asia-Europe route from Guangzhou's Nansha port

International shipping giant Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) launched a new premium Asia-Europe route on Thursday at the Nansha port area of Guangzhou Port in Guangdong province.

Dubbed the "Jade" route, it will feature larger container vessels and replace the previous Dragon route to support hinterland enterprises during the peak season for Europe-bound shipments, according to Guangzhou Port Group.

The Jade route brings enhancements in capacity allocation and transportation efficiency, as it is operated by 16 ultra-large container vessels, each with a capacity of 24,000 TEUs. It covers markets in Southern Europe, including Spain, France, and Italy, and connects to the logistics networks of North Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean.

Since 2026, MSC has launched several new Southeast Asian routes from Nansha, which has become a core strategic hub for its deepening presence in the South China market.