The official launch of the International Chamber of Shipping’s (China) Liaison Office was celebrated during the Hong Kong Shipowners Association annual cocktail reception at the Conrad Hotel last night (21 November).
Chinese officials, Liu Xiaoming, Deputy Minister of Transport, and Mr Huang Liuquan, Deputy Minister of the Hong Kong and Macua Affairs Office of the State Council, headed a large group of distinguished guests from China and overseas. Also, in attendance were ICS Chairman, Esben Poulsson, and ICS Secretary-General, Guy Platten, who had flown in especially for the liaison office launch.
“Today marks a momentous day for not only the Association but also the global maritime community, as the International Chamber of Shipping, with the support of our Association, is opening a representative office in Hong Kong, China– the first time in the ICS’ 98-year history that it has established a permanent presence outside London,” said newly elected HKSOA Chairman, Bjorn Hojgaard.
“The move on the one hand recognizes the increasing importance of China in the maritime industry, and on the other highlights Hong Kong’s leading position in Asia,” he added.
Acknowledging the existence of geopolitical tensions around the world, and Hong Kong’s current difficulties, Mr Hojgaard said:
“No doubt, 2019 has been a most challenging year for shipping, not least for the Hong Kong maritime sector. The US–China trade war has continued, coupled with the imminent imposition of the global sulphur cap and the social crisis that the local community is now facing.
“We sincerely wish for the unrest to come to an end and for the Hong Kong community to begin a process of healing and reconciliation. Fortunately, given Hong Kong’s unique position, the city, and the shipping industry here still has many strengths and opportunities.”
Also invited to address the HKSOA’s largest annual event last night, was Secretary for Transport and Housing, and Chairman of the Hong Kong Maritime and Port Board, Frank Chan.
In reference to the new ICS presence in Hong Kong, Mr Chan said: “The decision to have its first ever Liaison Office based right here in Hong Kong is clear recognition of China’s emergence as one of the world’s leading maritime nations, and also Hong Kong’s superb connectivity with the global shipping community.”
Mr Chan then offered special praise to the HKSOA: “Now into its 62nd year, the HKSOA has become one of the largest, most respected voices in global shipping. The Government of the HKSAR (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) fully appreciates the contribution of the HKSOA to our maritime industry, our economy and the future of Hong Kong. We could not have asked for a more trustworthy partner and are truly grateful for the unfailing support all along,” said Mr Chan.
“Same as the dedication of the HKSOA to creating value for its members, we the Government are committed to supporting the growth of the maritime sector. We have announced various initiatives in the 2019 Policy Address, such as tax concessions for ship leasing and marine insurance business, funding injection for maritime manpower development, and setting up regional maritime desks worldwide to better support our shipowners,” he added.
Mr Chan said the government was introducing a number of measures to ease the financial burden of certain business sectors. On the maritime front, it would exempt a number of fees for ocean-going vessels for 12 months. There will also be provision for a one-off survey fee subsidy and non-accountable fuel subsidy to local commercial vessels. Besides, to better support small and medium enterprises, a new 90% guarantee for approved loans would be rolled out.
Outlining the agenda for his first year in office as Chairman, Mr Hojgaard explained:
“First, we will focus more on the younger generation. Grooming young talent is crucial for the industry, as we are experiencing a period of many unprecedented changes in this new era, which are driven by innovation and technology. We will be ready for these changes and challenges only if we have the right people with the appropriate skills and experience.”
Mr Hojgaard said the HKSOA will also boost the level of cooperation with China from 2020.
“Early this year, the central government promulgated the Greater Bay Area outline development plan, re-affirming Hong Kong’s position as an “international financial, shipping and trade centre.
“We must ride on these opportunities to position Hong Kong well in the Hong Kong-GBA-China-World axis, in the interests of both our members and the global community,” he added.
“We will continue to give our views to the central government, especially on the formulation of the upcoming national 14th Five-Year Plan, and regulatory issues impacting on the maritime industry.”
Edward Liu, counsel and legal director at Hill Dickinson in Hong Kong as the principle representative of the ICS (China) Liaison Office.
The decision to establish the ICS office in Hong Kong was arrived at after strong competition from Singapore and Tokyo.
Source:
hongkongmaritimehub
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