APL has launched the Guam Saipan Express (GSX), a fortnightly service which connects Japan with the two Micronesian islands.

“We are excited about this new addition to APL’s global service network,” said Kenneth Glen, president of APL. “We are confident that our services, backed by our track record and familiarity with Guam’s operating environment, will serve both the US government and local businesses well. The GSX service will also provide new opportunities for global shippers to expand their business to Guam and Saipan.”

At Yokohama, the GSX connects with the newly announced EX1 service to and from the US mainland, where approximately 75% of Guam’s import cargo originates, according to APL.

The call at Yokohama also enables shippers in Guam and Saipan to access APL’s global network.

The port rotation will be: Yokohama – Saipan – Guam – Yokohama, with arrivals in both Guam and Saipan scheduled for weekends so that cargo is available on Monday mornings.

The route will be served by a dedicated 1,100 TEU vessel, according to APL. The first sailing will depart Yokohama on November 24, 2015.