The ports of Shanghai and Melbourne have launched a new implementation plan for their Green Shipping Corridor, alongside C40 Cities.
Announced on October 21, 2026, the plan sets out steps to reduce emissions from container shipping between China and Australia.
The two ports established the corridor in October 2025. The latest announcement moves the project from planning towards implementation.
The initiative focuses on cleaner marine fuels, shore power and improved digital systems.
The partners aim to deploy at least one container ship using low-carbon fuels on the Shanghai–Melbourne route by 2035.
Before deployment, they will complete studies to assess the project’s feasibility.
The Port of Shanghai aims to reach an annual bunkering capacity of one million tonnes for green methanol and biofuels.
The Port of Melbourne will also study the feasibility of alternative fuel bunkering. It will assess opportunities to develop shore power infrastructure.
These measures aim to reduce emissions from vessels and port operations.
The plan also includes digital improvements. The partners will explore better data sharing between ports and ships, alongside systems to improve voyage planning and operational efficiency.
Several shipping and energy companies are supporting the initiative.
These include COSCO Shipping Lines, Shanghai International Port Group, HAMR Energy, ABEL Energy and Shenergy.
Their work will focus on developing cleaner fuel production and supply chains.
C40 Cities will coordinate activities between the ports and other partners.
Saul Cannon, Chief Executive Officer of the Port of Melbourne, said the plan would help advance shore power, alternative fuel bunkering and the use of lower-emission vessels.
The announcement also coincides with the 20th anniversary of the sister-port partnership between Shanghai and Melbourne.
China is Melbourne’s largest trading partner. It accounts for 50% of the port’s container imports and 20% of its exports.
The partners hope the corridor will provide a model for cleaner shipping on other routes between Australia and Asia.
