Tag: Hong Kong

  • China Launches Antarctic Expedition, Blocks Key Conservation Proposals

    China Launches Antarctic Expedition, Blocks Key Conservation Proposals

    On Friday, China started its 41st expedition to Antarctica, showing a growing interest in the Southern Ocean. This time, China is using three ships for the mission. Two of these ships are icebreaking research vessels named Xuelong and Xuelong 2. The third ship is a cargo vessel called Yongsheng, which is carrying supplies for the mission.

    This expedition will last until May 2025. For the first time, scientists from Hong Kong are joining the mission. This is an important step in cooperation between mainland China and Hong Kong in research related to polar science. Chan Kwok-Ki, the Chief Secretary of Hong Kong, was present at the send-off event for the mission at the Guangzhou Nansha International Cruise Port. He traveled with six scientists from Hong Kong who were selected to participate in the expedition.

    During their time in Antarctica, the researchers will work on building facilities for the Qinling Station. This station is located on the ice-free Ross Sea and is the fifth research station set up by China in Antarctica, which opened in February. The researchers will also continue studying the effects of climate change on the Antarctic environment. They will monitor the environment in important areas like Prydz Bay in East Antarctica, the Cosmonauts Sea, the Ross Sea, the Amundsen Sea, and the Antarctic Peninsula.

    While China increases its activities in Antarctica, it has faced criticism for collaborating with Russia to change how the region is governed. Recently, at the annual meeting of the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) in Hobart, Australia, China and Russia blocked important proposals aimed at protecting marine life in Antarctica. Some of these proposals included creating four new Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the region. Since 2016, China and Russia have opposed this proposal, even though most CCAMLR members support it.

    Marine Biofuel supplied to the Capesize Bulker at Hong Kong

    In addition to this, both countries voted against renewing a management measure for krill fishing that has been in place for over 30 years. This measure limits krill fishing near the Antarctic Peninsula to no more than 620,000 tons. Another 620,000 tons of krill can be fished in other areas of Antarctica. This is important because it prevents too much fishing in one place. However, CCAMLR members must renew this measure every year.

    Krill are small shrimp-like creatures that serve as a vital food source for many animals in Antarctica, including penguins, seals, and whales. Tony Press, a former head of the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD), expressed concern, saying, “The precautionary principle on fishing restrictions in Antarctica that has been supported by CCAMLR countries has gone backwards. This sets a very bad precedent for the future.”

  • Chinese shipyards complete tugs in September

    Chinese shipyards complete tugs in September

    Chinese shipyards have been busy building and delivering several tugboats for both local and international clients during September. These new tugboats are part of major projects to help ports handle ships more efficiently.

    At Rizhao Gangda Shipbuilding, a new harbor tug was launched as the first in a series for Rizhao Port, China. This tug is 37 meters long and designed by Robert Allan Ltd. It has a powerful 4,850 kW engine and is built with an azimuth stern drive (ASD), which makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. This tug was launched in August 2024 and has a beam of 12 meters. It is expected to be fully ready by the end of this year. Rizhao Port, where this tug will operate, is growing its capacity to dock and undock ships, helping to speed up operations.

    Cheoy Lee Shipyards, based in Hong Kong, delivered two more tugs, RS Skye and RS Hunter, to Thailand. These tugs will support ships entering Thai ports. The tugs were designed by Robert Allan Ltd using the Z-Tech 5000 design, which is known for its ASD capabilities. Cheoy Lee also finished a new tug called Verde Gee for Rashied Maritime Services. This tug will help move ships in Egypt’s Port of Adabiya, with more tugs of the same type expected to be completed by late 2024.

    Jiangsu Zhenjiang Shipyard Group has also been hard at work, launching and delivering tugboats and barges for a big project under COSCO Shipping Bulk Cargo Transportation Co. These vessels are part of the Belt and Road project, which supports COSCO Shipping’s bauxite export from Guinea, West Africa. On 8 September 2024, the shipyard delivered two tugs and two barges. The tugs are 37 meters long and can pull up to 52 tonnes ahead and 44 tonnes astern. They also have a top speed of 12 knots. The barges are large, 111 meters long and can carry up to 12,000 dwt (deadweight tonnage).

    ClassNK to class ammonia-fueled tugboat ‘Sakigake’ – World’s first ammonia-fueled vessel

    Additionally, the shipyard launched two more pusher tugs in September, Yick Tug 209 and Yick Tug 2010, both set to be finished by the end of the year. On 6 September, two ASD tugboats were launched: Yi Ming 6 for Jiangsu Zhencheng Tug Shipping Co and Da Hang Tuo 10 for Cangzhou Port.

    Construction is also moving forward on two more tugboats at the shipyard, with the keels being laid in September. One is for a 3,824-kW ASD harbor tug for Zhangjiagang Port, and the other is for a multipurpose anchor-handling tug for CCCC First Harbor Engineering Co. These tugs will help with various port operations once completed.

  • J M Baxi Group Inaugurates Tuticorin Container Terminal: A New Gateway for East-West Trade

    J M Baxi Group Inaugurates Tuticorin Container Terminal: A New Gateway for East-West Trade

    J M Baxi’s New Tuticorin Container Terminal Begins Operations, Connecting India to the World

    J M Baxi Ports & Logistics is excited to announce the official opening of the Tuticorin Container Terminal. This new, high-tech facility is located at the V.O. Chidambaranar Port, on the southeast coast of India. It’s set in a key spot along the Gulf of Mannar, making it an important hub for shipping containers between India, Europe, the USA, and other parts of the world.

    Why the Tuticorin Container Terminal is Important

    Strategic Location
    The terminal is perfectly located near the East-West international sea route. This means ships traveling between Australia, Africa, the Suez Canal, and the Gulf can easily stop here. It helps link India with major global trade routes, making it a critical part of the global shipping network.

    Modern Infrastructure

    The terminal is built with advanced technology. It has a 370-meter-long quay and a draught of 14.2 meters. It also has top-quality cargo handling equipment, including three post-Panamax cranes and nine electric rubber-tyred gantry cranes. These machines help the terminal handle up to 0.6 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) every year, speeding up the process of loading and unloading containers.

    Efficient Connectivity

    This terminal is well-connected by roads, railways, and air routes. It serves large parts of southern India, including Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala. Its location near an international airport makes it even easier to move goods quickly. This allows the terminal to play a key role in coastal trade and international import and export.

    Republic of the Marshall Islands Maritime Administrator awards Approval in Principle for Anemoi Rotor Sails

    A Step Toward Sustainability and Inclusivity

    Eco-Friendly Operations
    J M Baxi is committed to sustainability. The terminal uses electric cranes and reach stackers, which are better for the environment. These green initiatives show how the company cares about running a cleaner, greener port.

    Focus on Inclusivity

    The terminal is also making strides toward gender equality. Forty percent of the workers at the Tuticorin Container Terminal are women. J M Baxi is proud to promote an inclusive workplace that empowers women in the maritime industry.

    A Milestone Event: The First Vessel Call

    The terminal’s operations started with the arrival of the ‘Rio Grande Express,’ a Hong Kong-flagged vessel run by Hapag Lloyd. This was a big moment, showing that the terminal is ready to handle global shipping operations. It also highlights the teamwork that has helped make this terminal a key player in the region’s maritime future.

    Positive Impact on India’s Economy

    With the terminal fully operational, container handling in southern India will become faster and more efficient. This will cut down the time it takes to move goods and help boost the region’s economic development. The improved connectivity and increased capacity will lead to more trade, which in turn will create new jobs and strengthen India’s position in the global market.

  • Tuticorin International Container Terminal to begin operations

    Tuticorin International Container Terminal to begin operations

    Tuticorin’s New Container Terminal Opens for Business on 16th September

    South India is about to welcome a new private container terminal—Tuticorin International Container Terminal Pvt Ltd—which is part of J M Baxi Ports & Logistics Ltd. This terminal will start its operations on 16th September with the arrival of a ship called ‘Rio Grande Express’. This ship is flagged under Hong Kong and is operated by the German shipping company Hapag-Lloyd.

    The Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, will officially start the terminal’s operations. Several other important people, like Shantanu Thakur, Minister of State for Ports, T K Ramachandran, Secretary of the Ports Ministry, and E V Velu, Tamil Nadu’s Public Works Minister, will also attend the event.

    Eco-Friendly Port Operations

    J M Baxi Ports & Logistics is committed to protecting the environment. They are launching a green initiative at the Tuticorin terminal, making it more eco-friendly by using all-electric cranes and reach stackers. This is a step toward running the terminal in a cleaner and more sustainable way.

    The terminal will use three Rail Mounted Quay Cranes (RMQCs), which can lift up to 65 tons and cover a distance of 58 meters. Additionally, there will be nine electric Rubber Tyred Gantry Cranes (eRTGs) and an electric Reach Stacker. These machines are designed to handle large cargo efficiently while reducing pollution.

    About the Rio Grande Express

    The Rio Grande Express is a container ship built in 2006. It can carry 4,248 containers (TEUs). The ship is part of a weekly service called the South East India-Europe Express (IEX). This service connects ports in South India—such as Visakhapatnam, Kattupalli, and Cochin—to several European ports, including Rotterdam, London Gateway Port, and Hamburg. The service is operated by shipping companies COSCO, ONE, and YANG MING, along with Hapag-Lloyd.

    Ocean Network Express orders 12 methanol dual-fuel container ships

    New Terminal’s Impact

    This new container terminal was created by turning Berth No. 9 of the V O Chidambaranar Port into a space for handling containers. The total cost for this conversion was Rs 434.17 crore. It is part of the Indian government’s push for privatisation.

    The new terminal will increase the port’s capacity to handle more containers, adding 6 lakh TEUs per year, bringing the total to 1.8 million TEUs annually. This is a significant boost for the port’s operations, which are currently handled by two other container terminals: PSA SICAL Terminals Ltd and Dakshin Bharat Gateway Terminal Pvt Ltd.

    Key Milestone for Tuticorin

    Tuticorin International Container Terminal won the contract for this project by bidding Rs 1,900.44 per TEU. The two current container terminals at V O Chidambaranar Port handled 3,36,000 containers between April and August 2024, up from 3,15,000 containers during the same period last year.

    This new facility will further increase the port’s ability to handle containers and will contribute to the overall growth of South India’s trade.

  • Three Ghanaian Nationals Detained as Stowaways at Paradip Port

    Three Ghanaian Nationals Detained as Stowaways at Paradip Port

    Three Ghanaian nationals were discovered hiding aboard the MV Great Sheng Wen, a coal-laden cargo ship, at India’s Paradip Port in Odisha on August 30, 2024. The individuals were found in a restricted area of the port, prompting immediate action from port authorities. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has since taken the men into custody, with suspicions that they may be stowaways.

    The crew of the MV Great Sheng Wen, a Hong Kong-flagged Chinese bulk carrier, discovered the three men while the ship was anchored at Paradip Port. The vessel had arrived with a coal shipment from Russia for ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India. Authorities noted that the ship’s crew consists of 20 members, none of whom are Ghanaian, raising questions about how and when the three individuals managed to board the ship.

    Transformational Technologies Shaping the Future of Maritime Discussed at ABS Korea National Committee Meeting

    In response to the situation, the Immigration Department has issued instructions to the vessel, barring it from deboarding the individuals at any Indian port. The ship has been ordered to unload its cargo and leave Paradip Port as soon as possible. An investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding the stowaways’ presence, including their intended destination and how they accessed the ship. Authorities suspect that the individuals may have boarded the vessel in Africa before it set sail for India.

    Security has been tightened around the vessel as the CISF and port officials continue their inspections. The investigation aims to uncover more details about the intent of the three individuals and the mysterious circumstances under which they boarded the ship.

  • Singapore announced top maritime centre for 11th consecutive year

    Singapore announced top maritime centre for 11th consecutive year

    The 2024 Xinhua-Baltic International Shipping Centre Development Index (ISCDI) Report, co-released by the Baltic Exchange and Xinhua News Agency, marks its 11th year of evaluating the world’s top shipping centres. The report offers a detailed assessment of these hubs based on port efficiency, professional business services, and the overall business environment, solidifying its importance in the maritime industry.

    Singapore has once again been named the world’s leading shipping centre, achieving a high score of 96.23 out of 100. This marks the 11th consecutive year Singapore has retained this position, thanks to its strategic location and robust maritime infrastructure. London and Shanghai follow closely, securing second and third place, respectively, and maintaining their rankings from the previous year. The report underscores the stability and sustained performance of these top ports, despite the global challenges faced by the maritime industry.

    UAE to establish maritime decarbonisation centre

    Other prominent shipping centres such as Hong Kong, Dubai, and Rotterdam also performed strongly, reinforcing their roles as key global players. The rankings highlight the ongoing strength of these hubs in a year marked by significant shifts in global trade patterns and the ongoing push for decarbonisation and digital innovation within the industry. The ISCDI Report further notes the entry of Tianjin into the rankings, showcasing the growing influence of Asian ports on the global stage.

    The findings of the report reflect the resilience of the global shipping industry, which has managed to maintain stability despite economic slowdowns, geopolitical tensions, and environmental challenges. Industry leaders continue to emphasize the importance of innovation and collaboration in driving the sector forward, particularly in areas such as decarbonisation and digitalisation, which are seen as crucial for the future development of the global maritime network.

  • Cathay Launches New Song to Strengthen Customer Connection

    Cathay Launches New Song to Strengthen Customer Connection

    Cathay is introducing a new musical theme called “Song of Cathay,” created to strengthen its bond with customers. This uplifting and inspiring tune represents Cathay’s commitment to helping people move forward in life.

    The “Song of Cathay” adds a new layer to the airline’s brand by drawing from its rich history as a leader in travel. The music is designed to evoke happy travel memories, capture the excitement of adventure, and reflect the warmth and hospitality that Cathay is known for.

    Shanghai Maritime University (SMU) and Bureau Veritas establish strategic partnership to drive maritime innovation, education and training

    This new music will be featured in various places, including Cathay Pacific’s lounges, aircraft, and the Cathay Shop at Cityplaza. It will also be available on the airline’s mobile apps, customer service hotlines, and Spotify playlists, offering a unified brand experience.

    To launch the new song, Cathay partnered with the Asian Youth Orchestra, which recorded the music at their camp in Tianjin. The song made its debut at a special concert in Hong Kong, celebrating the orchestra’s 34 years of excellence. Cathay has been a proud supporter of the Asian Youth Orchestra since 1990, highlighting its commitment to youth development and the arts in Hong Kong.

  • SulNOX scores in Indonesia with major patent

    SulNOX scores in Indonesia with major patent

    SulNOx, a green fueltech company active in shipping, mining, and road transport, has been awarded a valuable patent in Indonesia. The UK-listed company, which aids industries in reducing emissions, lowering fuel costs, and meeting sustainability targets, now adds Indonesia to its list of patented regions, which includes the US, Europe, Eurasia, Georgia, South Africa, Hong Kong, and China.

    These patents cover various versions of SulNOx conditioners, which emulsify water, increase lubricity, and enhance oxygen availability to fuel, resulting in cleaner and more efficient combustion.

    Indonesia, with a population exceeding 275 million and significant sectors in marine, mining, oil & gas, transportation, and offshore companies, represents a crucial market for SulNOx. The growing car ownership and a robust retail market, already served by SulNOx master distributor A&S International, further underscore Indonesia’s importance.

    As a global leader in mining, supplying over a quarter of the world’s mineral supply according to the US government, and one of the largest maritime nations with more than 2,000 ports across its 17,000 islands, Indonesia offers immense potential for SulNOx’s innovative solutions. Worldoils Pte Ltd, a distributor already collaborating with SulNOx, is generating substantial interest from large Indonesian shipping companies.

    Ben Richardson, CEO of SulNOx Ltd., stated:

    “Indonesia is a major addition to our growing patent estate, representing a huge potential market for SulNOx across various sectors and use cases. Alongside our strong partnerships for distribution in the region, this exciting new development equips us well to grow our revenue pipeline and address very significant client opportunities with immediate effect.”

    SulNOx has shown significant progress in recent shipping trials, demonstrating consumption reductions of around 5% with operators piloting the SulNOxEco conditioner. Marfin Management expanded its trial after initial tests cut bunker consumption by over 6%, and its CEO has since joined the board of SulNOx. Greece’s Seanergy and Spring Marine are also exploring the adoption of SulNOx products to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

    Currently, SulNOxEco is actively involved in trials or discussions with companies representing nearly 6,000 vessels, highlighting the growing adoption and effectiveness of its innovative fuel conditioning technology.

     

  • Global Growth, Industry Leading Safety Performance, Advanced Digital Technologies and Strong and Diverse Talent Development Highlighted at ABS Annual Members Meeting

    Global Growth, Industry Leading Safety Performance, Advanced Digital Technologies and Strong and Diverse Talent Development Highlighted at ABS Annual Members Meeting

    (HOUSTON) Strong global growth in all areas, industry-leading sustainability projects, the development of a diverse talent pipeline, and pioneering advances in digital and condition-based technologies were highlighted for members from around the world at the 162nd ABS Annual Members Meeting.

    Members heard that continued focus on industry fundamentals had propelled the ABS fleet to 289 million gross tons and strengthened its number one position in global new order share at 24.2 percent, holding leading positions with both shipbuilders and shipowners. Among shipbuilders, ABS is number one for new order share in Brazil, China, Singapore, South Korea and the United States, and among shipowners, ABS is number one for new order share in Brazil, Denmark, Hong Kong, Singapore and Taiwan.

    Members also heard how ABS has maintained its leadership position across the entire global offshore market and continues to lead the existing fleet of tankers, while maintaining strong order book positions with container ships and bulk carriers. ABS also extended its lead in sustainability and digital services and expanded its support for governments.

    “At ABS, we believe there’s a direct correlation between safety and performance, and 2023 will be remembered as a year when our safety centric and mission driven strategy, our north star, guided our industry-leading performance,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman and CEO. “2023 will also be remembered as the year our industry began its transition to a multi-dimensional world, where fuels, technology and data unite to provide the hybrid solutions required to achieve net zero. And in these challenging times, ABS excelled again, delivering another year of strong growth and solid performance in all areas.”

    Rear Admiral Nancy Hann, Director of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Commissioned Officer Corps and NOAA Office of Marine and Aviation Operations, gave an overview of NOAA’s ongoing efforts in support of safety at sea and a specific update on their role in providing high resolution aerial imagery to assist in the recovery operations of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore, Maryland.

    Vice Admiral Peter Gautier, U.S. Coast Guard Deputy Commandant for Operations, gave an update to members on Coast Guard Operations, discussing the Baltimore bridge collapse as well. He highlighted recent events in the Middle East and the Red Sea and the connections between maritime security, economic security and national security.

    Vice Admiral Gautier said: “As mission driven organizations, ABS and the U.S. Coast Guard enjoy a close alignment in their approach and a strong relationship. This is more important than ever as the National Security Establishment is increasingly aware of the imperative of a strong commercial U.S. maritime industry.”

    Members heard about ABS’ pioneering work to advance condition-based and digital twin technologies and how artificial intelligence was being used to simplify the complex regulatory and operational landscape for owners. They were also told about ABS’ wide range of joint development projects with key industry partners to support the safe adoption of alternative fuels. For example, ABS supported development of projects at key points in the ammonia value chain—production, transportation and propulsion—including an offshore hydrogen and ammonia production platform, a dual-fuel very large ammonia carrier and an ammonia-fueled containership. The launch of a global ABS Electrification Center in Singapore to support maritime decarbonization projects is another example of ABS investing to support the maritime energy transition.

    Source link