Cai Mep Port Gets Green Light for 'Super' Container Ships

Vietnam's Ministry of Transport has granted approval for Cai Mep International Container Port (CMIT) to receive container ships with a tonnage of up to 214,121 DWT.

This decision allows CMIT to handle some of the largest container vessels in the world, bolstering its capacity and strategic importance in the region.

Safety and Compliance Measures in Place

The Vietnam Maritime Administration will oversee the implementation of this policy, ensuring that CMIT adheres to the regulations outlined in Decree No. 58/2017 and other relevant laws.

The Vung Tau Maritime Port Authority will be responsible for licensing and overseeing the safe entry and exit of these large vessels, with a focus on maintaining maritime safety, security, and environmental protection.

CMIT, located at the Cai Mep wharf area in the Ba Ria - Vung Tau seaport, is equipped to handle these massive ships. With a minimum depth of -16.5 meters in front of the wharf, 600 meters of berths, and an area of 48 hectares, the port boasts a capacity of over 1.1 million TEUs.

The port's state-of-the-art equipment includes Super Post-Panamax cranes, container handling equipment, and specialized trailers.

CMIT has been conducting trials to receive ships of this size since 2020 and has already obtained approval for a maritime safety plan for these vessels on the Cai Mep - Thi Vai river. The Ministry of Transport's recent decision solidifies CMIT's position as a key player in the global shipping industry.

This development is expected to have a positive impact on Vietnam's economy by increasing cargo throughput and attracting more shipping lines to the country. It also underscores Vietnam's commitment to modernizing its maritime infrastructure and becoming a major hub for international trade.