The South China port of Yantian has announced plans to reach 16 million TEU in container throughput by 2026, as part of its strategy to become a global maritime hub, reports UK's Seatrade Maritime News.

The development plan positions Yantian as a key offshore trading centre and international shipping hub, supporting China's Belt and Road Initiative and the Greater Bay Area marine economy.

The port aims to expand its high-end marine industry and promote marine technological innovation, while also serving as a demonstration zone for marine ecosystem protection.

Construction is underway at Yantian's east port area, where three new 200,000-tonne class automated container berths are being built. These berths will have a combined annual design capacity of three million TEU.

The new facilities are expected to become one of the world�� leading smart green container terminals, enhancing Yantian�� role in global shipping.

Yantian currently handles half of Shenzhen�� container throughput, reinforcing its status as a major hub in South China.