Rizhao Port: A Beacon of Innovation Transforming Global Trade Dynamics
Rizhao Port: A New Era in Global Trade
In the bright repair depot of Rizhao Port, located within the Shandong Port Group, a significant transformation is underway driven by modern technology. Xu Guannan, deputy head of the Technology Innovation Center, stands in front of a large 17-ton wheel loader, an essential piece of machinery with a remarkable capacity to lift three cubic meters of coal at once. However, the machine's recent performance has been hindered by issues related to overheating.
In a departure from traditional methods, which would typically involve climbing onto the machine and relying on experience to diagnose the problem, Xu uses his smartphone to access a digital repair manual facilitated by an advanced AI tool known as DeepSeek. This innovative approach offers precision and efficiency, quickly identifying a malfunctioning ventilation valve in the gearbox.
This is a glimpse into the high-tech operations at Rizhao Port, which has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years, earning acclaim as a prime example of how scientific innovation can be harnessed to upgrade traditional industries. In May 2024, China's General Secretary Xi Jinping praised Rizhao's evolution from a traditional port to a modern marvel powered by technological advancements.
As global trade faces complexities due to rising protectionism, China's efforts to enhance its port infrastructures and cultivate new productive forces are essential not only for domestic growth but also for encouraging mutual prosperity through international trade. Rizhao Port's transformation reflects China’s commitment to facilitating global supply chains and fostering new trade relationships.
Embracing Technological Advancement
The operational landscape at Rizhao Port has become increasingly sophisticated. Autonomous trucks navigate the docks, orchestrated by AI systems that ensure peak accuracy, while towering cranes, managed from a centralized command center, unload massive vessels with remarkable precision. This technological embrace is central to Rizhao Port's mission, demonstrating a