On July 6, the Hong Kong-flagged tanker Fulda faced a fire and explosion while traveling from Kandla to Port Sohar. After discharging methanol, the vessel began gas-freeing operations when the blast occurred. All 21 crew members were safely evacuated, and pollution control measures were initiated as a precaution.
The captain of the Hong Kong-registered container ship New Polar Bear, Wan Wenguo, appeared in a Hong Kong court without legal representation, facing charges of criminal damage to a natural gas pipeline and telecommunications cables. The case has been postponed to allow the prosecution to gather further evidence.
The newly established Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board (HKMPDB) aims to reinforce the city’s status as a global maritime hub. Featuring industry leaders, the board expands upon its predecessor by enhancing research capabilities and advising local authorities on policy, addressing Hong Kong’s declining prominence in the shipping sector.
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University is revolutionizing maritime management through AI and big data. The Maritime Data and Sustainable Development Centre has created tools for vessel monitoring and emergency response, achieving 98.6% accuracy in predicting typhoon shelter needs. Collaborations with Tsinghua University enhance data processing and improve navigation safety.
NYK and the Hong Kong Police Force recently conducted a counterterrorism drill on board NYK’s NYK Daniella, a 210-meter, 2,664-TEU containership in Hong Kong’s waters. The drill lasted an hour, involving terrorists entering the vessel by boat, leading to a search and suppression operation by Hong Kong special forces.
Authorities in Hong Kong are implementing an action plan to promote green maritime fuel bunkering, aiming to reduce carbon emissions from the cargo industry. The plan targets a 55 percent switch to green fuels by 2026 and a 30 percent cut in carbon emissions at Kwai Tsing Container Terminals by 2030.
The Hong Kong Maritime and Port Board is evolving into the “Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board,” with a focus on advising the government on policies and long-term strategies. The board will receive increased funding for research, promotion, and training initiatives to support the industry’s sustainable growth.
The Hong Kong Chamber of Shipping (HKCoS) launched on October 7, aiming to enhance Hong Kong’s status as an international maritime center. Key leaders emphasized collaboration among local businesses, government, and education, while addressing challenges like geopolitical tensions and decarbonization. HKCoS will foster a sustainable ecosystem for global trade and shipping.
The Lloyd’s Open Form Default Clause has been launched in collaboration with key stakeholders in the shipping industry to provide clarity on contracting emergency and non-standard tug services. This aims to streamline procedures, enhance communication between shipowners and underwriters, and restore confidence in LOF as a vital contract for maritime safety.
Hong Kong Salvage and Towage (HKST) has added two new tugs, the LNG Guardian I and LNG Guardian II, to their fleet. These custom-built vessels, designed by Robert Allan Ltd, are equipped with a Z-drive electric propulsion system for use at the Hong Kong LNG Terminal. They will assist in maintaining safety and supporting operations at the facility.
Jacky Im meticulously observes as his robot scales a 32-foot steel wall, monitoring every move with precision. As co-founder of Neptune Robotics, he focuses on deploying waterproof robots to address decarbonization in the maritime industry. Im’s dedication to perfection ensures his robots adhere to their pre-programmed routes flawlessly.
Maritime e-learning company MarinePALS has received an innovation endorsement certificate from ClassNK, making it the first maritime training provider to do so. Their Digital Learning Management System offers interactive, bite-sized tutorials, gamified learning experiences, and virtual reality scenarios, aiming to provide engaging and high-quality training for seafarers. CEO Captain Pradeep Chawla emphasizes the importance of fun and engaging content in education.
