The 2024 ASA International Shipping Forum convened in Hong Kong, addressing Green Shipping and Sustainability, gathering leaders to discuss eco-friendly practices and their role in promoting long-term industry growth.
Hosted by the Hong Kong Shipowners' Association (HKSOA) and strongly supported by the Hong Kong Maritime and Port Board, the forum convened numerous industry luminaries and regulatory authorities to exchange insights on crucial topics such as crew welfare, green fuel adoption, technological innovation, education and training, as well as regulatory policies.
In his keynote address, Mr. Frank Chan, Secretary for Transport and Logistics of the Hong Kong SAR Government, highlighted the escalating prominence of Asia in the global shipping landscape over the past decade, underscoring its indispensable role in fleet size, cargo transportation volumes, shipbuilding, and maritime services. He emphasized the Government's commitment to reinforcing Hong Kong's position as a world-leading international shipping center and providing robust support for industry growth.
President of ASA and Chairman of HKSOA, Angad Banga, stressed the necessity of global collaboration in addressing the challenge of greenhouse gas emissions reduction. He advocated for joint efforts in adopting alternative fuels, enhancing energy efficiency technologies, fostering inter-industry complementarity, and driving the development of zero-emission vessels and digital technologies to achieve sustainable shipping.
Guy Platten, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping, expressed concern for the professional development of seafarers, recognizing them as an indispensable pillar of the shipping industry. He advocated for creating a safe, equitable, and human-centric work environment for seafarers and commended the Hong Kong SAR Government's "Action Plan for Modern Logistics Development," particularly its initiatives on green and smart port development, high-value maritime services, and sustainable shipping measures, as industry benchmarks.
During the forum's discussion sessions, participants actively shared their perspectives on fuel options, innovative technology applications, education and training, and regulatory policies. There was a consensus that facing the environmental challenges in shipping, enhanced collaboration, innovation, and the adoption of sustainable solutions hold the key to resolving these issues.
The successful conclusion of this forum not only infused fresh momentum into the development of Asia's shipping industry but also offered valuable insights and strategies for advancing sustainable practices in the global maritime sector.