Hong Kong’s government unveiled a Modern Logistics Development Action Plan to create an eco-friendly port, enhance high-value maritime services, and attract top talent. This initiative aims to bolster the city’s position as a leading global shipping center.
The blueprint reiterates Hong Kong’s advantageous geographical location, unique institutional strengths, free economy and rich experience in international trade and commerce, stressing that the ultimate goal is to contribute to the country’s high-quality development.
In the nation’s new development paradigm, the drive for high-quality development, aimed at making the economy more innovative, efficient and sustainable, is the foremost task in building a modern socialist country by midcentury.
Among a slew of initiatives in the blueprint is the program to develop a green and smart port. The government will study the feasibility of providing green methanol and other clean energy refuelling facilities for both local and ocean-going vessels, and is expected to announce the relevant action plan next year, Secretary for Transport and Logistics Lam Sai-hung told a press conference.
The government will also make use of the injection of HK$200 million ($25.5 million) into the Maritime and Aviation Training Fund to strengthen on-the-job training and continuing education programs to enhance the awareness of environmental conservation and sustainable development among small- and medium-sized companies’ employers and employees starting from 2024.
To improve the cargo handling process and enhance efficiency by promoting the digitization of the maritime industry, the authorities will complete a review of the port facility and license fees payable to the government by ocean-going vessels and river trade vessels.
Other measures include exploring additional tax concessions, competing for new cargo sources, streamlining the shipping registry and boosting cooperation in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Source: China daily
