Disclosure
The Israeli shipping company ZIM Integrated Shipping Services announced the launch of ZIM Falcon Service (ZFS)a new maritime route dedicated to connecting ports in Asia to the East Coast of South America, especially strengthening commercial links between China, Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay.
The new service, operated exclusively by ZIM, is expected to begin operations in September 2026with a rotation that includes important Asian and Brazilian hubs:
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Shanghai → Ningbo → Hong Kong → Yantian → Rio de Janeiro → Santos → Paranaguá → Navegantes → Montevideo → Buenos Aires → Shanghai.
The initiative is part of the shipowner’s strategy to expand its presence in Latin America and offer faster logistics solutions for time-sensitive cargo, including agricultural and industrial products and refrigerated cargo.
The inclusion of Port of Santos in the Falcon service reinforces the importance of the largest port complex in Latin America in international foreign trade connections.
According to ZIM, the new service will allow competitive transit times, with emphasis on the route between Yantian and Santos, estimated at 26 daysoffering a more efficient alternative for importers and exporters who depend on direct connection with the Asian market.
In addition to Santos, Brazilian ports of Rio de Janeiro, Paranaguá and Navegantes they also become part of the new operational network, expanding options for national shippers.
One of the differences announced by the company is in serving cargo that requires greater operational control.
ZIM highlights that Falcon Service will have the capacity to move refrigerated cargo, using its reefer container structure and availability of outlets to guarantee the integrity of the cold chain.
The service will also be prepared for special loads, including:
- non-standard loads (out-of-gauge);
- dangerous products;
- electric equipment and vehicles;
- industrial loads with high added value.
For Brazilian foreign trade, the new connection represents an opportunity mainly for sectors such as agribusiness, frozen foods, animal protein, fruits and manufactured goods that have a strong commercial relationship with Asia.
The launch of the Falcon Service takes place at a time of intense competition between global shipowners for participation in the main commercial routes.
Shipping companies have been expanding direct services and reducing dependence on transshipment, seeking to offer greater predictability to customers and reduce operational risks in global supply chains.
With the new route, ZIM reinforces its strategy of operating in specific markets where it seeks differentiation through agility, operational flexibility and specialized service.
The ZIM Falcon Service’s first commercial voyage is scheduled for September 13, 2026with initial departure through the Port of Shanghai. Until the start of the new operation, the current ASE service will continue to serve the company’s customers.
The expansion confirms a trend in international maritime transport: in addition to the size of the fleet, shipowners are competing for the market for the ability to offer faster, more reliable routes aligned with the specific needs of each production chain.
For Brazilian ports, especially Santos, the arrival of new international services reinforces the country’s strategic role in global trade routes.