TCIT WELCOMES VSE SERVICE, ENHANCING DIRECT VIETNAM – U.S. CONNECTIVITY
Saturday, 02/05/2026
On the evening of May 1, 2026 – amid the atmosphere of celebrating International Labor Day, when many activities temporarily slow down, operations at Tan Cang – Cai Mep International Terminal (TCIT) continued without any pause. A vessel named GREENHOUSE quietly berthed at TCIT. From an operational perspective, this may simply be the maiden call of a new service, adding another option for import-export customers.
Photo 1. M.v GREENHOUSE – the maiden call of VSE service calling at TCIT.
The new VSE (Vietnam Shuttle Express) service, deployed by Premier Alliance, with the rotation Singapore – Cai Mep (TCIT) – Haiphong – Los Angeles/Long Beach – Busan – Shanghai – Shekou – Singapore, enhances direct connectivity between Southern Vietnam and major economic centers in the United States and Asia. In the context of global shipping networks continuously adjusting to geopolitical developments and supply chain shifts, direct services are playing an increasingly critical role in ensuring the stability of cargo flows.
Photo 2: TCIT’s representatives welcome the captain and crew of GREENHOUSE vessel.
In the first five months of 2026, TCIT has successively welcomed three new services, demonstrating ongoing efforts to expand the connectivity network and adapt to market changes. The launching of VSE service not only adds a new transport option but also strengthens the connection between Vietnam and the United States – the country’s largest export market. In Q1.2026, Vietnam’s total trade turnover reached USD 249.5 billion (+23%), of which trade with the United States accounted for USD 39.0 billion (+24%), representing approximately 32% of total export value. High-value commodities such as electronics and machinery continued to grow, reflecting the ongoing shift of supply chains toward Vietnam and the resulting demand for stable, direct transport solutions.
The continued expansion of service networks by shipping alliances in Cai Mep – Thi Vai area highlights the growing attractiveness of this port cluster within regional shipping networks. While one to two years ago, the area hosted only around 35–40 services, primarily focused on traditional markets, up to now the number has increased to more than 50 services, extending coverage to emerging markets such as the Middle East and South America. This expansion underscores the increasingly important role of the cluster, including TCIT, as a flexible connection point within the global shipping network.
Photo 3: Handling operations of GREENHOUSE vessel at TCIT.
With modern infrastructure, stable operational productivity, and the capability to accommodate vessels of up to 173,724 DWT, TCIT continues to enhance capacity to serve long-haul routes. At the same time, the terminal is accelerating digital transformation and green port initiatives to optimize operational efficiency and improve customer experience.
TCIT is steadily reinforcing the position as a “reliable port of call” within the trans-Pacific network—where shipping lines can place their trust in operational capability and consistency. In a market as dynamic as maritime transport, being a stable and dependable choice is perhaps the most sustainable competitive advantage.