PIL launches Ubuntu Express to boost Asia–South Africa connectivity

Pacific International Lines (PIL) has launched a new weekly service, the Ubuntu Express (UBX), strengthening trade links between Asia and South Africa.

The service will connect Central and South China, Taiwan and Singapore with key South African ports. It aims to support growing trade demand driven by expanding consumer markets, industrial growth and increasing flows of agricultural, temperature-sensitive and manufactured goods.

The Ubuntu Express will offer direct connections and competitive transit times, helping customers move cargo more efficiently between Asian production hubs and South African markets.

The first sailing is scheduled to depart from Shanghai on May 28, 2026.

The service rotation will include Shanghai, Ningbo, Kaohsiung, Shekou, Singapore, Durban and Cape Town, before returning via Singapore to Shanghai.

Named after the South African philosophy of “Ubuntu,” the service reflects a focus on connectivity and collaboration across regions.

“PIL has been serving Africa for decades, building deep market knowledge, strong partnerships and a trusted network across the continent,” said William Ho, General Manager, Long-haul Services at PIL. “The launch of Ubuntu Express reflects our continued commitment to growing our presence in the region, complementing our existing services to add capacity and better support the Asia–South Africa trade.”

The company said the new service will enhance its Africa network and provide more reliable and competitive shipping solutions for customers.

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