New container line starts operations in Saudi Arabia

RIYADH : A new shipping company has started operations in Saudi Arabia, called Folk Maritime, offering feeder vessel services and short-sea transportation solutions.

Mr. Poul Hestbaek is the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Folk Maritime. Hestbaek is a former CEO of Maersk-owned box line Hamburg Süd and left the Danish shipping giant in August 2023.

The new box carrier is expected to provide its customers with non-vessel operating common carrier (NVOCC) services and create new trade lanes, offering end-to-end shipping solutions.

Leveraging Saudi Arabia’s geographic advantage along the Red Sea, Folk Maritime’s strategic endeavours focus on elevating connectivity, optimising logistics efficiency, and reinforcing sector capabilities.

The company has also committed to sustainable shipping, aligning with the International Maritime Organization (IMO)’s 2030 GHG emissions target.