Hong Kong Maritime Week 2024 (HKMW) has officially set sail, bringing together global business leaders, policymakers, and innovators under the theme “Navigating to a Greener Future.” Running from November 17–23, the event features over 50 activities hosted by more than 80 maritime organizations, drawing approximately 14,500 maritime professionals from Hong Kong, Mainland China, and around the globe.
Showcasing Hong Kong as a Green Maritime Centre
HKMW 2024 highlights Hong Kong’s strategic vision to reinforce its role as an international maritime hub and develop high-value-added maritime services. The city’s recently launched Action Plan on Green Maritime Fuel Bunkering is a key initiative aimed at positioning Hong Kong as a leader in sustainable maritime practices.
Speaking at the Hong Kong Global Maritime Trade Summit on November 18, Secretary for Transport and Logistics Lam Sai-hung shared key developments:
“Hong Kong is the first flag administration to introduce a green incentive scheme, offering cash rewards for ships achieving high carbon intensity ratings under the International Maritime Organization (IMO). We are committed to reducing port emissions, encouraging green fuel usage, and collaborating on green shipping corridors with major partners,” he said.
Promoting Talent and Innovation in Maritime Services
Hong Kong is also stepping up efforts to cultivate maritime talent through partnerships with Mainland and international institutions. These initiatives include collaborative training programs and talent exchange opportunities, aimed at nurturing high-quality professionals in maritime law, insurance, ship finance, and logistics.
Acting Chief Executive Chan Kwok-ki emphasized Hong Kong’s strengths at the Asian Logistics, Maritime and Aviation Conference (ALMAC), noting:
“Hong Kong’s preferential tax regime, professional services, and strategic position in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area are key to its role as a green and smart port.”
International Collaboration and Industry Innovation
Key events during HKMW 2024 include the inaugural Global Maritime Trade Summit, which focused on “Risk & Resilience in an Age of Disruption.” Discussions centered on navigating challenges in the maritime industry, such as sustainability, technological advancement, and geopolitical shifts.
Additionally, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) hosted the “From Waste to Wealth: Unlocking Investment Opportunities in Ship Recycling” forum, exploring innovative approaches to sustainable ship recycling.
Green Shipping for a Sustainable Future
Hong Kong’s leadership in sustainability is further demonstrated through its efforts to develop green maritime fuel infrastructure and set up collaborative green shipping corridors. These initiatives reflect the city’s commitment to reducing environmental impact and driving innovation in maritime logistics.
Key Takeaways from Hong Kong Maritime Week 2024
- Theme: “Navigating to a Greener Future,” focusing on sustainability and resilience.
- Participation: 14,500 professionals, 80+ organizations, and 50+ events.
- Highlights:
- Launch of the Action Plan on Green Maritime Fuel Bunkering.
- Global Maritime Trade Summit addressing risk, resilience, and sustainability.
- IMO forum on sustainable ship recycling.
- Vision: To solidify Hong Kong’s position as a global green maritime hub and key player in the Greater Bay Area’s development.
