Official: Gemalink Port (GMD) Licensed to Welcome 232,000 DWT Mega-Vessels, Elevating Vietnam's Maritime Position

July 17, 2025 – A historic milestone has just been marked in Vietnam's maritime industry. The Gemalink deep-water port, the "jewel" in the port and logistics ecosystem of Gemadept Corporation (HoSE: GMD), has officially received approval from the Ministry of Construction to accommodate mega container ships with a deadweight tonnage (DWT) of up to 232,494.5.

This is not only good news for Gemadept but also a significant leap forward, affirming the capacity and position of the Cai Mep - Thi Vai port cluster in particular, and the entire Vietnamese maritime sector in general, on the global supply chain map.

1. From Safety Trials to Official Recognition

To obtain this crucial approval, Gemalink underwent a nearly two-year trial period under the strict supervision of competent authorities. Since 2023, the port has been assigned to conduct trial operations for this class of ultra-large vessels.

With the highest sense of responsibility, Gemalink invested heavily in modern monitoring and surveillance systems, including:

• Displacement monitoring system: To track the slightest changes in the wharf structure.
• Stress monitoring: To ensure the durability and safety of load-bearing components.
• 24/7 online information control: To maintain continuous coordination with pilots, captains, and state management agencies to ensure absolute safety for every vessel berthing and departing.

During this period, Gemalink safely handled 1,055 vessel calls, including 70 mother vessels with a DWT of over 200,000 on direct service routes to the US West and East Coasts. The resoundingly successful trial results provided a solid basis for the Ministry of Construction to issue its official approval.

2. Strategic Significance for Vietnam's Logistics Industry

Gemalink's ability to accommodate the world's largest container ships brings enormous strategic benefits, not only for the company but for the entire economy.

• Making Vietnam a Direct Link in the Global Supply Chain: Previously, cargo from Vietnam destined for long-haul routes often had to be transshipped through major regional hubs like Singapore or Hong Kong. Now, the world's largest shipping lines can bring mother vessels directly to Cai Mep - Thi Vai to load and unload cargo. This helps to:
  • Reduce logistics costs: Eliminating transshipment fees saves approximately $150-300 per TEU.
  • Shorten transit times: Goods reach consumers faster, increasing the competitiveness of Vietnamese exports.
• Elevating the Status of the Cai Mep - Thi Vai Port Cluster: This event contributes to making Cai Mep - Thi Vai one of the top 20 largest container port clusters in the world. It lays the groundwork for the area to develop into a bustling international transshipment hub, competing directly with other major ports in Southeast Asia.
• Attracting Shipping Lines and FDI: The capacity to receive mega-vessels is a key factor in attracting major shipping alliances to open new service routes, which in turn brings in foreign direct investment (FDI) into logistics infrastructure, warehousing, and port-related services.

3. Gemalink: A Vision to Become the Region's Leading Transshipment Port

Gemalink Port, with a total phase 1 investment of approximately $600 million, is a joint venture between Gemadept (75%) and CMA Terminals (25%), a subsidiary of the world's third-largest container shipping line, CMA CGM (France).

Currently, the port is operating beyond its phase 1 designed capacity. With a positive outlook, Gemadept is preparing for the Gemalink Phase 2 project.

• Expected Groundbreaking: First half of 2026.
• Expected Completion: End of 2027.
• Total Capacity after Phase 2: Reaching 3 million TEUs/year, positioning Gemalink among the largest container ports in Southeast Asia.

4. Real Logistics: Ready to Accompany the Industry's Transformation

The event of Gemalink officially welcoming mega container ships is not just news; it is a powerful signal about the future development of Vietnam's logistics industry. With port infrastructure capacity elevated to a new level, import and export activities for businesses will become increasingly convenient and efficient.

As a provider of comprehensive logistics solutions, Real Logistics understands this is a golden opportunity to optimize supply chains for our clients. We are committed to:

• Continuous Updates: Closely monitoring the schedules of mother vessels calling at Cai Mep - Thi Vai.
• Optimal Solution Consulting: Helping clients choose direct shipping options to save costs and time.
• Seamless Connectivity: Providing multimodal transport services, customs procedures, and warehousing to ensure the smooth flow of goods from the port to the factory and vice versa.

The progress of Gemalink is also the progress of Vietnam's supply chain. Contact Real Logistics today to join us in seizing the opportunity from this historic turning point, and to take your goods to the global market in the most effective and competitive way.

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Real Logistics Co.,Ltd

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