PTML Terminal Welcomes First Direct Ship from China to Lagos

PTML Terminal, West Africa’s largest multipurpose terminal, has achieved a historic milestone with the arrival of the MV Great Cotonou, the first Container-Roll-on/Roll-off (Con-Ro) vessel offering a direct shipping service from Shanghai to Lagos.

This groundbreaking development marks a major advancement in maritime trade between China and Nigeria, significantly reducing transit times and enhancing logistics efficiency.

Owned by global shipping giant Grimaldi Group, which also operates PTML Terminal, the MV Great Cotonou is set to revolutionize regional trade with its fastest-in-class transit time of just 27 days.

Unlike traditional shipping routes that require transshipment at intermediary ports, this direct service eliminates delays and extra handling costs, ensuring faster and more reliable cargo delivery for Nigerian importers.

Seamless Multimodal Cargo Handling

With this innovative shipping solution, Nigerian businesses can now receive containerized cargo, vehicles—including cars, vans, and trucks—and project cargo, all on a single vessel, streamlining supply chains and reducing overall import costs.

PTML Terminal is fully equipped to handle this new service, boasting:
State-of-the-art facilities
Easy port access
A highly skilled workforce
Advanced cargo-handling equipment

A Milestone Event in Maritime Trade

The vessel’s arrival was celebrated with a high-profile event, attended by key figures in the maritime industry, including:
Andrea Grimaldi, representing the Grimaldi family
Giampaolo Vitale, Line Manager, Grimaldi
Salvatore Califano, Director, Grimaldi
Ascanio Russo, Managing Director, PTML Terminal

Speaking at the event, Russo emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating:

“The arrival of the Great Cotonou at PTML represents a pivotal moment for Nigerian importers. This service will significantly cut transit times and logistics costs while offering unmatched convenience by accommodating various cargo types in a single shipment.”

He further highlighted PTML’s commitment to world-class service, revealing:

“We have invested over $15 million in infrastructure upgrades, including a $10 million mobile harbor crane and significant quay-side enhancements, to accommodate these large vessels.”

Andrea Grimaldi also underscored the broader impact of this new service:

“Our goal is to create a fast and efficient trade link between Shanghai and West Africa, particularly Lagos. The Great Cotonou’s direct 27-day transit time is just the beginning—we plan to expand coverage to more Chinese ports as demand grows.”

Strengthening Nigeria’s Role in Global Trade

With this new direct shipping route, Nigerian businesses and logistics operators now have access to a faster, more efficient, and cost-effective trade link with China.

By reinforcing Lagos as a key hub in global maritime logistics, this milestone strengthens Nigeria’s position as a leading player in West African trade.

As PTML Terminal continues to expand its service offerings, this landmark development stands as a testament to its commitment to:
Enhancing trade
Boosting economic growth
Providing world-class logistics solutions in Nigeria