In recent years, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) has witnessed a surge in major transport infrastructure projects, strengthening ties between cities across the region. Zhongshan, in particular, marked two major milestones last year—the opening of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link in June, followed by the launch of the new Zhongshan Passenger Port in November.

As the largest water transport hub in Guangdong, the new port represents a significant upgrade over its predecessor, offering enhanced shipping capacity, improved facilities, better connectivity, and faster passenger clearance. It currently operates five high-speed ferry routes to Hong Kong, Macao, and Shenzhen, reducing travel time by around 20 minutes.

Since its launch six months ago, the port has handled nearly 400,000 passenger trips. Plans are underway to expand services with island-hopping and leisure cruise routes, leveraging water transport to boost regional tourism. On the cargo side, Zhongshan is strengthening collaboration with other GBA ports through a "joint-port" initiative and already operates nine shared shipping routes with Shenzhen’s Shekou and Yantian ports. By harmonizing port codes and streamlining customs procedures, the system reduces red tape for exporters, lowers logistics costs, and gives local businesses a competitive edge.