It's official again: China has reclaimed its spot as India's largest trading partner. After four years of the US holding the top position, bilateral trade between China and India reached a staggering 151.1billioninthe2025–26fiscalyear,pushingtheUSintosecondplaceat151.1billioninthe2025–26fiscalyear,pushingtheUSintosecondplaceat140.2 billion. And the numbers keep climbing-India's exports to China jumped 36.66 percent to 19.47billion,whileimportsrose16percentto19.47billion,whileimportsrose16percentto131.63 billion.
That's a lot of cargo moving across the water, and the market is responding. Just last month, Maersk announced the launch of its new FI2 ocean service-a weekly route linking Shanghai, Ningbo, and Nansha directly to India's west coast ports Nhava Sheva and Pipavav, with the first sailing set for June 4. The service, operated with six vessels each carrying up to 4,500 TEU, was introduced in direct response to what shippers have been asking for: more capacity, consistency, and connectivity on the China-India lane.
What makes this particularly noteworthy is the Pipavav call. It connects to India's Dedicated Freight Corridor rail network, cutting inland transit times to Delhi-NCR, Gurugram, and Noida-major industrial hubs that rely on just-in-time deliveries of automotive parts, electronics, and chemicals. For businesses already feeling the squeeze from rising freight rates and schedule uncertainty, this kind of integrated sea-rail solution is a welcome change.
So Where Does Xiamen AE Global Fit Into This Picture?
We've been watching these developments closely-not from a distance, but from right here in Xiamen, one of China's busiest and fastest-growing ports. As a government-licensed and IATA, FIATA, FMC, and NVOCC-approved freight forwarder, we work with a network of over 100 overseas agents around the world. That means when a new route like Maersk's FI2 opens up, or when existing lanes get congested or rerouted, we have the local connections and real-time knowledge to keep your shipments moving smoothly.
With over ten years of experience in the freight forwarding industry, we don't just book cargo-we help our clients navigate the ups and downs of global logistics. Need a door-to-door sea freight solution from Xiamen to Mumbai? Looking for consolidated shipping to lower costs on smaller LCL loads? Or perhaps you're dealing with urgent, time-sensitive goods that need a flexible mix of air and ocean transport? We've got you covered across sea freight, air freight, customs clearance, warehousing, and project cargo.
Why Xiamen Matters for Your India-bound Cargo
Xiamen Port has expanded significantly in recent years, now offering multiple direct routes to India-including the ECSX service launched last year that cuts transit time to Mundra to just 20 days. For shippers based in southern China or looking to avoid the congestion at larger northern ports, Xiamen offers a strategic alternative: efficient customs processes, competitive freight rates, and direct access to key Indian gateways like Nhava Sheva, Mundra, and Chennai.
We've seen firsthand how businesses are adapting to the shifting landscape. Importers are locking in capacity earlier. Exporters are exploring new routing options to protect themselves from blank sailings and rate spikes. And through it all, the demand for reliable, communicative logistics partners has never been higher.
Let's Talk About Your Next Shipment
Whether you're shipping industrial machinery, consumer electronics, auto parts, or agricultural goods, the China-India trade lane is busier and more dynamic than ever. But more volume doesn't have to mean more headaches. With the right partner and a clear view of the options, you can turn record trade into reliable delivery.
Have questions about the new FI2 route or any other China-India shipping options? Reach out to us at Xiamen AE Global. We're here to help you figure it out-no corporate runaround, just honest logistics advice. Contact us today to get a quote or talk through your supply chain needs.
