The Liberia-flagged bulk carrier Ocean Lady docked at Ledong Guodian Terminal on August 12. (Source: Hainan Daily)

Following the State Council of the PRC's approval of the permanent opening of the Yinggehai Port Area of Sanya Port to international traffic, the Liberia-flagged bulk carrier Ocean Lady docked at Ledong Guodian Terminal on August 12, becoming the first foreign vessel to enter the port area for operations since its opening.

The vessel was primarily used for loading and unloading energy-related cargo, signifying the beginning of regular international energy transport operations at the Yinggehai Port Area.

To facilitate the vessel's safe entry, the Sanya Maritime Safety Administration conducted pre-arrival inspections of the navigation environment, berthing facilities, and safety conditions at the terminal. They also checked the channel for potential hazards and used the Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) system to track the ship in real time, offering traffic coordination and information services.

The Ocean Lady's call marked the port area's first call by a large foreign vessel since it opened to international traffic. The Yinggehai Port Area is expected to play a greater role in international energy transportation and serve as a new maritime gateway linking energy shipments between Hainan and global markets.