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In a landmark achievement for Sierra Leone’s maritime sector and broader economic development, the Deputy Director General of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA) – Madam Judith B. Kosseh and the Ambassador of the Republic of Sierra Leone to China – HE Amb. Abu Bakarr Karim joined the Management of Xiehai Group to officially launch a groundbreaking direct shipping route between Taizhou Port in China and the Queen Elizabeth II Quay in Freetown, Sierra Leone. This strategic initiative marks a trans-formative leap forward in the nation’s trade infrastructure and underscores Sierra Leone’s growing roles as a logistics and maritime hub in West Africa especially for landlocked and geographically disadvantaged countries in the sub region.

Xiehai Group is a highly reputable Chinese enterprise accredited for its comprehensive integration of ship transportation, fleet management, and end-to-end shipping supply chain solutions. With this direct service, Sierra Leonean importers, who have historically endured transit times of no less than 12 weeks for cargo shipments from China, can now expect delivery within 5 weeks. The significantly reduced transit window will not only accelerate the availability of essential goods, raw materials, and capital equipment but also dramatically lower logistics costs, reduce inventory holding expenses, and enhanced overall supply chain reliability.

This development is a game-changer for the Sierra Leonean business community, particularly for manufacturers, traders, and entrepreneurs who rely heavily on Chinese-sourced products and components. Faster, more predictable shipping schedules will bolster competitiveness, stimulate local production, and ultimately foster a more dynamic and resilient economy. Moreover, the streamlined logistics corridor aligns with national priorities to improve the ease of doing business which is a key pillar of the country’s Medium-Term National Development Plan and its ambition to become a regional trade and transport leader.

The leadership of SLPHA reaffirms its unwavering commitment to creating an enabling environment for strategic investors and global logistics partners. By facilitating seamless port operations, implementing modernization reforms, and forging international partnerships such as this one with Xiehai Group and the Taizhou Port, SLPHA is positioning Sierra Leone as a model of maritime efficiency and excellence in the sub-region.

Special recognition is due to His Excellency the Ambassador of Sierra Leone to the People’s Republic of China – Amb. Abu Bakarr Karim, whose visionary diplomacy, tireless advocacy, and deep engagement with Chinese stakeholders were instrumental in turning this ambitious project into a reality. His leadership exemplifies the power of strategic bilateral cooperation in driving tangible economic outcomes for the nation.

This historic collaboration between Sierra Leone and China embodied in the Taizhou-Freetown direct shipping route, represents far more than a logistical upgrade; it is a powerful symbol of Sierra Leone’s openness for business; its growing integration into global trade networks, and its determination to harness maritime connectivity as a catalyst for sustainable development.

The business community, government institutions, and citizens alike have every reason to celebrate this milestone and to look forward to the waves of opportunity it will bring.