New service connects Davao and General Santos to global markets, enhancing trade opportunities for Philippine fresh produce.
Davao, Philippines – CNC, the Intra-Asia specialist of the CMA CGM Group, announces the launch of SP8, a new maritime service designed to meet the growing demand for reliable reefer shipments from the Mindanao ports of Davao and General Santos. Tailored for the export of chilled and sensitive commodities, such as bananas, pineapples, and other perishable goods, SP8 ensures the freshness and quality of Mindanao’s agricultural products as they reach global markets.
The SP8 service route covers Singapore – Davao – General Santos – Singapore, addressing a traditionally underserved market. Operated exclusively by CNC, the service offers enhanced control, flexibility, and schedule reliability, ensuring on-time deliveries for time-sensitive reefer cargoes.
Served by two 1,100 TEUs geared vessels equipped with onboard lifting equipment, SP8 enables independent loading and unloading of cargo containers. This capability increases operational flexibility, reduces turnaround times, and enhances efficiency, particularly in ports with limited shoreside crane availability, offering potential cost savings for customers.
SP8 provides a weekly service that directly connects Davao and General Santos to Singapore, a major transshipment hub in the region. From Singapore, shipments gain seamless access to CMA CGM’s global network, reaching key markets across Europe, the U.S., the Middle East, and Australia. This ensures faster and more efficient delivery of Philippine agricultural products while significantly improving transit times to these markets.
Sivakumar T., Managing Director of CMA CGM Philippines, said ,”We are thrilled to introduce SP8, a game-changing service that reflects our commitment to supporting Mindanao’s export industry. By strengthening global connections, SP8 empowers local businesses to thrive in international markets. Leveraging our long-standing expertise in the reefer business, CMA CGM is uniquely positioned to meet the growing demand for Philippine agricultural exports and drive economic growth in the region.”
Ricardo R. Floirendo, President of Davao International Container Terminal (DICT), said, “The launch of SP8 is a major boost for Mindanao’s agricultural exporters, providing them with a dependable and efficient container cold-chain solution to reach global markets. At DICT, we recognize the critical role of reliable logistics in sustaining the competitiveness of our fresh produce exports. CNC’s new service complements our position as a premier gateway for Mindanao’s agriculture, ensuring that our world-class bananas, pineapples, and other perishables arrive at their destinations with optimal freshness and quality.”
The launch of SP8 marks a significant milestone in CMA CGM’s efforts to enhance trade opportunities for Mindanao’s agricultural sector, reinforcing its leadership in the maritime industry and commitment to fostering economic growth in the region.
