Hong Kong’s role as a transhipment hub in the Far East has been tested and proven amid the challenges brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic.This is according to Hong Kong chief executive, Carrie Lam, who said while it was not immune to global challenges faced by other port cities, particularly the disruptions caused by the pandemic, significant effort had gone into ensuring that maritime operations continued smoothly in Hong Kong.Frank Chan Fan, Hong Kong’s secretary for transport and housing, agreed, saying while public health was the first priority, there had been continued effort “to do whatever we can to help ensure a smooth and steady f low of goods across the globe, with our port operating ceaselessly round the clock. Besides, we also facilitate sea crew change, bunkering and reprovisioning in Hong Kong”.Speaking during a recent online event, Fan said Hong Kong had established itself as a leading international maritime hub.“In 2020, Hong Kong ranked sixth among leading world traders, accounting for 3.2% of world merchandise trade, with a total trade value of $1.1 trillion. With over 90% of our cargo volume being carried by water, port and shipping play a vital role. With over 150 years of maritime heritage, robust international connectivity, and our multi-faceted maritime excellence, the Hong Kong port remains one of the top 10 container ports in the world, as well as a transhipment hub in the region.”He said there were some 280 weekly container vessel sailings, connecting to over 600 destinations worldwide. “We are also home to nearly 900 shipping-related companies, providing a broad spectrum of well-developed maritime services. The opening of the first overseas office by the International Chamber of Shipping, and the designation of Hong Kong by the Baltic and International Maritime Council as their named arbitration venue, all speak for themselves.”He said while the pandemic was not yet over, planning ahead for post-Covid- and long-term development was essential. “For Hong Kong, other than fostering closer collaboration with counterparts in the Greater Bay Area to make the most of the cluster effect, and enhancing our competitiveness and global outreach in maritime services, we are determined to go smart and green too. Adopting the use of innovative technology and promoting digitalisation has topped our agenda. To this end, we have set up a task force on smart port development.”
