The Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mr Lam Sai-hung, and the Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), Mr Guy Platten, met today (May 28) to exchange views about the latest developments in the global maritime industry. 

     At the meeting, Mr Lam shared about the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government (HKSARG)'s continuous efforts to reinforce Hong Kong's position as the world's leading international maritime centre, in particular the promulgation of the Action Plan on Maritime and Port Development Strategy in December 2023, which sets out key strategies and action measures to support the maritime and port industry.

     Given the rapidly evolving maritime trends, from sustainability goals to technological advancements, Mr Lam and Mr Platten agreed that there is a need to enhance collaboration among different stakeholders within the industry. In this regard, Mr Lam welcomed the ICS's plan to organise a high-level Global Maritime Trade Summit in November in Hong Kong this year, which aims to facilitate dialogues and co-operation among industry leaders and policymakers worldwide on topical issues concerning global trade and shipping. Mr Lam highlighted that it is also opportune for the Summit to be staged as one of the pivotal events in the Hong Kong Maritime Week (HKMW) 2024. 

     "As an international maritime centre, Hong Kong is well positioned to serve as a global platform that fosters cross-border exchange and synergy. We express our gratitude for the ICS's continuous support for the Hong Kong maritime industry, as revealed by its active participation in the annual flagship event HKMW over the past several years. Hong Kong looks forward to welcoming the Summit later this year," said Mr Lam.

     The Summit is scheduled to be held during the HKMW 2024 and will gather industry leaders, policymakers, business executives, and experts from different maritime sub-sectors across the globe. The Summit will explore innovative solutions to address the most pressing challenges facing the maritime industry, including promoting efficiency, sustainability, and resilience in global trade and shipping. 

     ​The HKMW is in its eighth edition this year. Organised by the Hong Kong Maritime Port Board with the sponsorship of the HKSARG, the HKMW is a major annual event in Hong Kong during which maritime leaders from home and abroad take part in a week of activities that showcase Hong Kong as an international maritime centre. Co-organisers of the event are the Hong Kong Shipowners Association and the Hong Kong Maritime Museum, together with the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and Invest Hong Kong as partners. The HKMW 2024 will be staged from November 17 to 23, 2024, and will feature a diverse range of maritime-themed conferences, events and activities.

Ends/Tuesday, May 28, 2024
Issued at HKT 15:38

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