Read Authentic Ratings for the Cosco-Piraeus

In a significant development for the maritime industry, the Port of Tampa is set to establish its first direct shipping connection with Asia through the Gulf of Mexico Express (GME) service introduced byCosco. This milestone journey is set to commence with the vessel Cosco Piraeus, which has a capacity of 4,253 TEU. The ship is scheduled to depart from Shanghai on December 24, 2023, embarking on its eastbound voyage and is expected to arrive at Tampa's port on January 28, 2024. According to the latest report by Alphaliner, the GME service is distinct as it is the smallest among the 18 all-water routes connecting Asia to the US East Coast. Notably, it operates exclusively with traditional panamax vessels, each with a capacity of under 5,000 TEU. This new direct link is anticipated to bolster trade and economic opportunities for Florida, enhancing Tampa's stature as a key player in global shipping routes.

In a significant development amidst its bankruptcy proceedings, OW Bunker’s U.S. divisions, OW Bunker USA and OW Bunker North America, have issued an arrest warrant for the panamax container vessel COSCO Piraeus due to outstanding bunker payments. This vessel, which has a deadweight tonnage of 4,300, is owned by COSCO Container Lines, based in China. Reports from Tradewinds indicate that the ship allegedly received fuel from Chimbusco Americas, a partnership involving COSCO and China Marine Bunker Supply Co., in the previous year. Court documents lodged in New Jersey reveal that OW Bunker is pursuing nearly $1 million in unpaid fuel bills. To facilitate the resolution of the matter, Chimbusco Americas has reportedly placed over $938,000 into a designated account. Notably, OW Bunker’s U.S. branches entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy last year, just days following a similar filing by their parent company in Denmark.