SIMIC

The newly upgraded North Asia Express (NAX) service will start from November to offer customers improved convenience and increased frequency to their key markets.

Customers are expected to have a nine-day transit time from Hong Kong to Lae on the north coast of PNG. Apart from these ships, Swire will also deploy the 30,192-gross tonne MV Lae Chief, which will be delivered this month.

The vessel features 45 tonne cranes that can carry all cargo types, including breakbulk, out of gauge and reefers.

Said Swire general manager Jeremy Sutton: "This service upgrade will enable customers to improve supply chain efficiency and inventory management from both an import and export perspective."

The NAX service, which was launched in July 2015, seeks to provide a direct link between North Asia, Townsville and Lae in Papua New Guinea.