Discover the Wan-Hai-512: Ratings & Maritime News

In a significant development, Singapore's Pacific International Lines (PIL) and Taiwan's Wan Hai Lines have marked their return to Iran's primary port, Bandar Abbas, after a two-year hiatus. This revival is a pioneering move among major shipping companies following the relaxation of sanctions on Iran earlier this year, as reported by Alphaliner. Since 2012, main carrier networks had ceased operations to Bandar Abbas, along with other Iranian ports, due to stringent sanctions imposed by the EU and the US concerning Iran's nuclear activities. The inaugural call at Bandar Abbas was made on July 22 by the 4,532-TEU Wan Hai 512, part of the jointly operated China-Middle East-India (CMS) service under PIL, with the participation of MOL and 'K' Line—although the latter two Japanese firms have since exited the route. The revamped CMS service will also replace calls at Karachi and Mundra, now serviced through the newly introduced Asia Pakistan Mundra Express (PMX/APM), in which Wan Hai and PIL collaborate with Cosco and CSCL. This restructured service is set to operate over a six-week period utilizing six vessels ranging between 4,200 and 6,000 TEU, supplied by Wan Hai and PIL. Meanwhile, 'K' Line will maintain its involvement in the Far East - Western India-Pakistan trade via slots on the Hanjin-KMTC Far East India Express (FIX), while MOL will redirect its efforts to the Straits-Nhava Sheva Karachi Express (NKX), in partnership with Samudera. Notably, the only other company providing direct connections between the Far East and Iran is the Tehran-based HDS Lines (Hafiz Darya Shipping Company), which operates a fleet of 20 vessels between 2,200 and 6,500 TEU on this route. However, it is important to note that HDS Lines is recognized by the EU as an entity associated with Iran's sensitive nuclear activities.