Ireland's Port of Cork has secured a direct shipping route to New York and Savannah on the East Coast of the United States with the addition of Cork as a port of call on France-based CMA CGM's Panama Direct transatlantic service, according to reporting in the Irish Examiner.

The addition of Cork by the French shipping and logistics leader marks a major enhancement in Ireland's international shipping connectivity. The service officially began with its inaugural departure as the container vessel MV CMA CGM Louga sailed from Cork.

The new weekly service establishes a direct link between Cork and key US East Coast ports, providing Irish exporters and importers with a fixed-day schedule. By offering a direct route, the service significantly reduces transit times and streamlines logistics by eliminating the need for feeder connections through other European hub ports.

Cargo can now reach New York in approximately nine days and Savannah in around 11 days, delivering faster and more efficient access for Irish exports to vital US markets. This development is expected to support Irish trade growth by improving supply chain efficiency and strengthening transatlantic commercial ties.

Chief Executive of the Port of Cork Company Ann Doherty stated the announcement positions Cork at the heart of transatlantic trade and will benefit the region's top exporters and importers, adding: "It is part of our strategy to continue to support jobs and industry throughout Cork and the wider Munster region by improving shipping service options and supply chain reliability for the Irish market. We are also helping diversity national trade options and the addition spotlights Cork's role as a Tier-1 port of national significance, boosting the region's attractiveness as an investment destination."

Read full story of the Port of Cork's new direct CMA CGM service to New York and Savannah.