SHIPPING-LINE REFERENCE PROFILE

PIL

Singapore

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COMPANY RECORD

From the source archive.

The descriptions below are retained from the supplied archive. They have not been independently updated or verified.

Overview

Pacific International Lines (PIL), based in Singapore, is one of the largest container shipping companies in Asia, operating a fleet of around 100 vessels. PIL specializes in connecting Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, delivering shipping solutions to over 90 countries and 500 ports. The company is known for its flexibility, handling dry, refrigerated, and special cargo, and for its customer-centric approach and digital initiatives.

History

PIL was founded in 1967 by Chang Yun Chung with two used ships, Kota Singa and Kota Naga, initially serving Singapore and Jakarta. The company grew rapidly in the 1970s and 1980s, expanding its fleet and entering new markets, particularly in Southeast Asia and China. By the 1990s, PIL had established itself as a major player in Asia-Africa trade. The company transitioned to container shipping in the mid-1980s and acquired Malaysia’s Konsortium Perkapalan Berhad in 2005. In the 2010s, PIL invested in modern, fuel-efficient vessels and digital platforms. Facing financial difficulties in 2019, PIL underwent a debt restructuring supported by Heliconia Capital, a subsidiary of Temasek Holdings. Under new leadership, PIL returned to profitability by 2021, focusing on core markets and sustainable growth. The company continues to modernize its fleet and invest in green technology, maintaining its position as a key regional player.

Service summary

PIL is a Shipping Line that provides Ocean based transport and runs regular services to countries such as Singapore, China, Malaysia, Mozambique and Hong Kong. The SCAC code for PIL is PCIU.

PORTS LISTED IN SOURCE

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Archive codes & figures

Collection date: 23 October 2026. This is not the measurement date for the figures. Confirm current codes, alliances, fleet details and performance with the shipping line.

SCAC code: PCIU
Alliance: Independent
Fleet size (vessels): 100
Capacity (million TEU): 0.35
Market share (%): 0.9
Global rank: 17
On-time performance (latest month): 25.26%
Avg days late (latest month): 5.2
Indian offices: 4
Top ports served: SGSIN Singapore, Singapore (2-4 times a day); CNSHG Shanghai, China (Daily); CNNSA Nansha, China (Every 1-2 days); CNNGB Ningbo, China (Every 1-2 days); CNQDG Qingdao, China (Every 1-2 days); MYPKG Port Klang, Malaysia (Every 1-2 days); CNSHK Shekou, China (2-4 times a week); MZMNC Nacala, Mozambique (2-4 times a week); CNXMG Xiamen, China (2-4 times a week); HKHKG Hong Kong, Hong Kong (2-4 times a week)

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