International Container Terminal Services, Inc.’s TecPlata terminal in Buenos Aires marked a key milestone in strengthening Argentina’s trade ties with Asia as it welcomed the inaugural call of Ocean Network Express’ (ONE) River Plate Express (RPX) service this May.

The new service, part of ONE’s recently announced East Coast South America Express 2 (SX2), expands direct shipping routes between Asia and South America. The Spirit of Dubai was the first vessel to call at TecPlata under this service, creating a faster, more reliable connection with ports in Pusan, southern China, Rio Grande, and Montevideo.

According to TecPlata Chief Executive Officer Juan Pablo Trujillo, the service signals stronger collaboration between global and local partners. “This new service symbolizes the result of joint work and mutual trust. We are honored that leading companies like ONE and Newsan have chosen TecPlata as part of their logistics chain. Our terminal is designed to be an extension of our clients, a partner that supports their operations with efficiency, sustainability and commitment,” he said.

The RPX feeder service adds exclusive port coverage in Argentina by connecting Zarate and La Plata through Rio Grande. It also links to Buenos Aires and Montevideo via the RBM feeder, ensuring extended reach for ONE’s SX2 network across the region. The inclusion of a direct call in Pusan further enhances strategic access for customers in South Korea, North China, and Japan.

ONE Argentina President Fernando Maggi and Newsan Chief Executive Officer and President Luis Galli joined Trujillo during the launch at TecPlata. The executives emphasized the value of innovation and operational efficiency in a competitive maritime landscape.

“This service, which started as a brainstorming idea, has become a strategic reality. In such a commoditized industry, the difference lies in innovation and customer service. Coming to TecPlata is not a gamble, but rather a strategic decision aligned with our ambitious five-year plan – and here we go,” Maggi said.

Galli added, “It is greatly satisfying to return to TecPlata in the context of an operation driven by the conviction and effort of teams that have proven themselves in meeting the highest standards. The efficiency indicators are exceeding our expectations. We decided to take on the challenge because we believe that each of our areas must build competitive advantages – and in that sense, TecPlata is a strategic partner with a forward-looking vision.”

The arrival of ONE’s RPX service at TecPlata reflects ICTSI’s growing role in South America’s logistics chain. It enhances Argentina’s position in the global shipping network, with a service focused on improving transit times, streamlining routes, and offering flexible options for shippers in the region.