In the face of challenging times for the global shipping industry, leaders gathered at an international forum in Hong Kong emphasize the need for industry-wide transformation.
The Hong Kong Maritime Week 2023, themed “Recharging the Maritime Industry,” kicked off with the third World Maritime Merchants Forum, drawing 900 maritime experts and professionals.
During the opening ceremony, John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), stressed the timeliness of the theme. He highlighted disruptions in global supply chains and changing customer spending patterns, calling for a revitalization of the maritime sector.
Global trade disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and the imperative to reduce carbon emissions have all impacted maritime activities. Industry participants discussed the need to explore alternatives to traditional fossil fuels and reduce costs.
Feng Bo, Executive Vice President of China COSCO Shipping Corporation Limited, emphasized the industry’s need to adapt and build a greener, smarter, and tech-savvy global shipping logistics ecosystem.
Johannah Christensen, CEO of the Global Maritime Forum, noted China’s growing role in the shipping sector and its potential to lead in developing new fuels needed by the industry.
In addition to green initiatives, technological innovation emerged as a key trend for the shipping industry. Industry leaders foresee the widespread application of smart technologies, leading to the realization of intelligent and autonomous shipping.
Miao Jianmin, Chairman of China Merchants Group, emphasized the importance of collective efforts amid evolving external conditions and business models. He stressed the interconnected nature of the global shipping industry and the need for unity in responding to its transformative challenges.
