Bertschi tests Arctic route for chemical logistics

Swiss bulk logistics provider Bertschi Group has participated in a trial voyage through the Northern Sea Route to evaluate its viability for chemical logistics. Using the ice-class vessel PanStar Acro, the company transported ISO tank containers from Busan, South Korea, toward Gdansk, Poland.

The pilot voyage aims to test a seasonal maritime connection between Northeast Asia and Northern Europe via the Bering Sea. If utilized regularly, the route could offer a 19-day transit from Busan to Rotterdam, significantly shorter than the approximately 30 days required via the Suez Canal or the 40 days required around the Cape of Good Hope.

Bertschi Group CEO Jan Arnet stated that the participation allows the company to build operational knowledge early, noting that any future use of the route would be assessed based on safety, reliability, environmental performance, and regulatory compliance.