In a strategic move to address shoreline scarcity and boost operational efficiency, Shanghai is transforming the north area of Xiaoyangshan Island into its largest automated container terminal. Spearheaded by the Shanghai International Port Group (SIPG), this national-level project is part of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan and reflects Shanghai’s vision for a smart, green, and sustainable port infrastructure.
Meeting Global Demand Through Expansion and Automation
Despite handling a record 51.51 million TEUs in 2024 and topping the world in container throughput for 15 consecutive years, Shanghai Port has faced constraints due to limited shoreline resources. The Xiaoyangshan project offers a solution with the addition of 6,100 meters of new shoreline, including 22 high-capacity berths. The fully automated terminal is designed to handle 11.6 million TEUs annually, integrating cutting-edge technologies to ensure digital and intelligent operations.
Environmental Leadership and Engineering Innovation
In line with China’s green port goals, the project prioritizes ecological sustainability from construction through operation. Around 100 million cubic meters of land are being reclaimed, and a 7,500-meter breakwater is under construction using innovative large cylindrical bucket foundations—a first in offshore dock engineering. These advancements not only minimize environmental impact but also address harsh weather conditions that limit the annual construction window during winter.
Phased Development for Long-Term Transformation
The construction is divided into four sections to enable continuous progress and phased operations, with the first section set for completion in 2026. With over 6 billion yuan already invested and 4 billion more planned for 2025, the project reflects a long-term commitment to transforming Shanghai Port into a global benchmark for automated and sustainable maritime infrastructure.
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Source: CHINA DAILY
