Shunde Rongqi Port Container Terminal will close on 1 December 2026 due to strategic restructuring and declining cargo volumes.
Foshan's Shunde Rongqi Port Container Terminal will cease operations on 1 December 2026 as part of a strategic restructuring. Opened in 1987 as Shunde's first container terminal, the facility has played a significant role in the district's foreign trade for nearly 40 years. However, operational challenges and shifting industry dynamics have led to the decision to close.
The closure will occur in phases to minimize disruption. Starting 20 November, the terminal will no longer accept new containers or bulk cargo, and no new contracts will be signed. From 20 to 30 November, customers must retrieve cargo, settle fees, and complete documentation. By 1 December, all port access routes will close. Outstanding cargo or unpaid fees must be addressed by 30 November to avoid complications.
Fee reconciliation will be based on contracts and operational records, with refunds for overpayments and deposits processed through original payment channels. Customers should retain contracts and payment records to facilitate this process. To avoid delays or added costs, businesses are advised to engage alternative terminals and logistics providers early and plan for the transition.
Rongqi Port has faced declining cargo volumes for years. In 2023, operations were temporarily suspended due to reduced throughput, reflecting the growing pressure. This decline is part of a broader trend, with overall container traffic at Foshan Port falling from 4.44 million TEUs in 2019 to 3.59 million TEUs in 2025. The migration of key industries like home appliances and furniture, driven by rising labor costs and global supply chain shifts, has significantly reduced the port's cargo base.
The rise of modern terminals such as Shunde New Port, Gaohe Port Terminal, and Beijiao Port has reshaped the competitive landscape. These facilities offer higher capacity, modern equipment, and better integration with hub ports, attracting more cargo. Combined port and one-port-through models have concentrated cargo flows toward newer facilities, leaving privately operated inland terminals like Rongqi Port at a disadvantage.
The closure signals the need for businesses reliant on inland terminals to reassess their logistics strategies. Companies should monitor the key dates, complete cargo clearance, and settle fees promptly. Engaging alternative terminals like Shunde New Port and Gaohe Port early will help ensure smooth transitions and avoid disruptions to supply chains.