Hong Kong fortifies future with port and maritime industry focus

Authorities discussed strategies that will fuel the industry amidst the current geopolitical scene.

The Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board (HKMPDB) aims to establish the port industry and high-value-added maritime services as its dual pillars amidst rising protectionism and complex geopolitics.

This was discussed during the first meeting of the board wherein members of the board were briefed by the Shipping Research Centre of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University on the current situation, strengths, challenges, and opportunities of key segments within the Hong Kong international maritime centre.

Aside from setting the industry as a pillar, Hong Kong will also establish itself as a safe harbour for international shipping enterprises in decision-making, transactions, innovation, financing, risk management, and dispute resolution.

Regular visits to key maritime regions will be coupled with establishing new arrangements to support members to go global to participate in prominent Mainland and overseas events by delivering speeches and telling good Hong Kong maritime stories.

Other key initiatives include deepening engagement and collaboration with influential international organisations and continuing to attract international maritime organisations to hold conferences in Hong Kong.

“The HKMPDB is charting its future work along these directions and has put forward various constructive suggestions. The Government will continue to collaborate with the industry in advancing high-quality development of the industry together,” said Secretary for Transport and Logistics and member of the HKMPDB Mable Chan.