Taichung Harbor: The Gateway to Taiwan's Central Region
The History and Development of Taichung Harbor
Taichung Harbor is located on the western coast of Taiwan, in the central region. It was established in 1908 during the Japanese colonial period, as a small fishing port. Its location, sheltered from the strong currents and winds of the Taiwan Strait, made it a safe harbor for small boats. After World War II, the harbor was expanded and modernized to become a major commercial port, handling a variety of goods such as cement, steel, grains, and containers. Today, it is the third largest port in Taiwan, after Kaohsiung and Keelung, with an annual throughput of over 30 million tons.
The Facilities and Services of Taichung Harbor
Taichung Harbor has a total area of 4,641 hectares, including 1,687 hectares of sea area and 2,954 hectares of land area. It has 44 wharves, 55 cranes, and a water depth of up to 15 meters, which can accommodate ships up to 150,000 DWT. The harbor also has a number of specialized terminals, such as the cement terminal, the steel terminal, the petrochemical terminal, and the container terminal. In addition, there are various auxiliary services, such as customs, inspection, quarantine, and logistics, to facilitate the import and export of goods.
The Future Development of Taichung Harbor
Looking ahead, Taichung Harbor has ambitious plans to further expand and upgrade its facilities and services, in order to meet the growing demand for maritime transportation and logistics, and to enhance its competitiveness in the global market. One major project is the construction of the Taichung Port No. 7 Container Terminal, which will have a total area of 53 hectares and a handling capacity of 1.5 million TEUs per year. Another project is the establishment of an international logistics center, which will integrate various logistics functions and services, such as warehousing, transportation, and distribution. Moreover, Taichung Harbor is committed to promoting environmental sustainability and social responsibility, by implementing green technologies and practices, and by engaging with local communities and stakeholders.
In conclusion, Taichung Harbor plays a crucial role in Taiwan's economy and transportation network, as well as in the development of the central region. Its history, facilities, and future plans demonstrate its importance and potential as a modern and efficient port. Whether you are a business owner, a shipper, a tourist, or a local resident, Taichung Harbor offers a diverse and dynamic environment that reflects Taiwan's spirit of innovation and globalization.