The Rise of Shenzhen Shekou Port in Global Maritime Trade

Located in Western Shenzhen, near Nanshan district, Shekou port (CNSHK) is one of the important ports in Shenzhen. It serves as a passenger and cargo port by connecting Shenzhen to Hong Kong, Macau, and other Pearl River Delta regions. Meanwhile, Shenzhen Shekou port focuses on short-sea container shipping and is known for its efficient custom clearance.

History and Rise of Shenzhen Shekou Port

The Early days: a Small Fishing Village

In the late 1970s, Shekou was little more than a sleepy fishing village. However, its strategic location where is close to Hong Kong caught the attention of China’s reformist leaders. In 1979, Shekou became the testing ground for China’s first industrial zone, marking the beginning of its transformation.

In the early 1980s, Shekou Port (CNSHK) was established to support the growing industrial zone. Initially, it handled small-scale cargo and passenger ferries to Hong Kong and Macau. But as Shenzhen rapidly industrialized, the port expanded its facilities to accommodate larger vessels and more diverse cargo. By the 1990s, Shekou Port had become a key player in regional trade, connecting Shenzhen to global markets.

Evolution from Regional Hub to Global Powerhouse

The 2000s marked a period of rapid modernization for Shekou Port. Investments in state-of-the-art infrastructure, including deep-water berths and automated terminals, transformed it into a hub for containerized cargo and Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) services.

In 2015, port of Shekou became part of the Guangdong Free Trade Zone, unlocking new opportunities for international trade. The port leveraged its strategic location and policy advantages to attract global businesses, particularly in high-tech manufacturing, e-commerce, and logistics. Today, Shekou Port handles millions of tons of cargo annually, serving as a vital link between China and the world.

Container Shipping Industry in Shenzhen Shekou Port

Top Export Goods from Shenzhen Shekou Port

As part of the Guangdong Free Trade Zone, Shekou Port benefits from policy incentives and the developed industries around it.

The major export goods from Shenkou port are listed as below:

1. Electronics & High-Tech: Smartphones, computers, and semiconductors from nearby tech giants like Huawei and DJI dominate exports to Europe, the US, and Southeast Asia.

2. Machinery & Industrial Goods: Industrial robots and precision instruments are shipped worldwide via container and multimodal transport.

3. Consumer Goods: Clothing, toys, and household items are exported to America and European markets, boosted by cross-border e-commerce and efficient logistics.

4. Energy & Chemicals: Oil products and LNG are traded with Southeast Asia and the Middle East, supported by specialized terminals.

5. Food & Agriculture: Frozen seafood and fresh fruits are imported and exported using advanced cold chain facilities.

6. Automobiles: Cars and parts are shipped via Ro-Ro vessels, with imports of luxury vehicles and exports to emerging markets like Africa.

Shenzhen Shenkou Port Shipping Routes

Generally, port of Shekou primarily handles near-sea shipping routes, such as those to East Asia, Southeast Asia, and South Asia, while Yantian focuses on long-haul routes, including those to the Americas, and Europe.

This is why many shippers inquire about shipping from Shenzhen Shekou Port to Bangkok rather than from Shenzhen Yantian to Bangkok, as Shekou has more frequent sailings.

Bangkok Port actually has several terminals, such as SCT, PAT, BMT, TPT, UNITHAI, TSTL, and SHCP. The shipping schedules from Shenzhen Shekou Port to the PAT and SCT terminals are more frequent than to other terminals. Therefore, depending on the terminal, the available shipping routes and cost may vary.

Must-Know Rules for New Exporters

Essential Documentation & Compliance

New exporters must adhere to specific regulations when using Shenzhen Shekou Port. Accurate documentation is essential for smooth cargo transfer. Please check the below rules:

• Mandatory Fields: Shipper/consignee enterprise codes + full contact details (omission risks ¥5k fines)

• FORM E Certificates: Single ASEAN consignee only. State material origins (e.g., “60% Chinese content”). Date sequence: invoice ≤ BL ≤ cert issuance.

• AEO Codes: Optional but grant 70% faster clearance.

Pro Tip: Pre-audit docs and free consulting via info@yqn.com.

Leverage Shekou Port's Advantages

• Smart Tools: Real-time demurrage calculator + LCL matching (35% cost cut)

• Fast-Track Options: Direct loading for DG/cold chain (8hr saved) + e-release for general cargo

• Gov Benefits: 3-day tax rebates + cross-border VAT exemptions because of free trade zone policy

About YQN

As a global digital logistics expert, YQN offers consultative international logistics services covering sea freight, air freight, rail freight, multimodal transportation, trucking, customs clearance, insurance, overseas warehousing, and destination services.

FAQ

What makes port of Shekou a preferred choice for exporters?

Its strategic location and advanced infrastructure make it a vital shenzhen gateway for global trade. Exporters benefit from efficient operations and seamless connectivity to international markets.

What industries rely heavily on Shekou port China?

Electronics, machinery, textiles, and consumer goods industries depend on the port. Its capabilities support high-volume exports, meeting global demand efficiently.

See Also

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