Lidl gears up with new ship fleet amid US‑China trade tensions
Lidl, the well-known discount retailer, has ordered five new container ships to mitigate the impact of the trade war between the United States and China. These new vessels will also serve Vietnam and Malaysia, which is expected to enhance the flexibility of the supply chain.
Lidl has decided to expand its container fleet with five new ships, reports "Handelsblatt". This decision is a response to the trade tensions between the USA and China that have disrupted global supply chains.
The new ships are intended to help reliably deliver goods to European stores.
The container ships, ordered from the Chinese shipyard Guangzhou Shipyard International, are valued at around £520 million.
Each ship will hold 8,400 standard containers. Lidl, through its transport company Tailwind, has been delivering goods from Asia to Europe for three years, but until now has utilised smaller vessels.
From 17 June, Lidl's shipping route will include Port Kelang in Malaysia. This move aims to enhance delivery flexibility and safeguard against the effects of the US tariff policy.
The new route will also enable service to markets in Vietnam and Malaysia, representing a strategic step in the company's development.
