We were thrilled to have representation from our partners at The Cork Chamber of Commerce, ICL (Independent Container Lines), The Port of Cork, and Penn Terminals to share their knowledge on the brand new Cork-Chester Shipping Route at our virtual seminar – A Global Conversation: Keeping the Show on the Road and the Sea on October 1st. This mutually-beneficial trans-Atlantic container shipping service is the first direct link between the USA and Ireland in years. 

The Cork-Chester shipping route will provide exporters from both countries a fast and reliable route for their supply-chains. ICL, which runs the route, specializes in Trans-Atlantic shipping and has four ships and five ports of call. For exporters from Ireland, ships depart from Cork every Saturday and arrives in Chester, PA 10 days later and in another 6 days arrives in Wilmington, NC. Exporting to a centrally-located state like Pennsylvania allows easy access to the entirety of the North-East market. For American exporters it is 17 days from Chester to Cork and 15 from Wilmington to Cork. 

The Cork-Chester Shipping Route will support a multitude of different industries, just a few are, pharmaceuticals, raw materials, and food. It is important to remember that the Port of Cork is planning a major expansion allowing bigger bulk shipments as well as a container terminal. 

Irish companies who are considering expansion into the PA should reach out to Irish Chamber members, Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development. PA DCED is a wonderful resource for companies interested in expanding and growing in Pennsylvania. American companies who are considering expansion into Ireland, specifically Cork and the South East, should contact IDA Ireland.

The Cork-Chester Shipping Route is a momentous step towards faster and greater trade opportunities between the Emerald Isle and the East Coast and overall greater connectivity. Click HERE to view of a recording if you missed this program. For our members and guests who tuned in, thank you!