El modelo de puerto de operaciones de UAE será analizado en Abu Dhabi
* Tercera edición annual del World Ports & Trade Summit de Abu Dhabi entre el 19 y el 20 de marzo de 2013
* Sea Asia, en su 4 ª edición, vuelve a Singapur con conferencias de gran interés del 9 al 11 de abril de 2013 en Singapur
REGION’S PORTS VITAL CONDUIT FOR AFRICA-ASIA TRADE DEVELOPMENT
Reciprocal growth opportunities as UAE builds on regional hub status and emerging African powerhouse nations look to develop world-class port operations using successful UAE model
The vast continent of Africa will take centre stage at the 2013 World Ports & Trade Summit, which takes place in Abu Dhabi from 19-20 March, with a special focus session on day two of the event to examine opportunities in the region for both trade and infrastructure development.
Growth in seaborne trade between China and Africa is already benefiting UAE ports, as the world’s third largest economy and the emerging African continent rely on the Emirates’ trading gateway status, further boosted by growth in bilateral trade between South Africa and the UAE, which was valued at almost US$2 billion in 2011.
“In the first decade of the millennium, trade between African countries and the GCC jumped by 270% to reach more than US$18 billion per annum, and this shows no sign of slowing down with added impetus – particularly from the UAE - generated by government and private sector investment interest in West and Central Africa, following successful forays into East, South and North Africa,” said Chris Hayman, Chairman of Seatrade.
The Africa Focus, which will take place on Wednesday 20th March, features a two-in-one session that will examine port development and trade opportunities in Africa.
Held under the patronage of H.H. General Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, WP&TS is an annual calendar event for global economists, port authorities, terminal operators, shipping companies, global cargo owners and investors, the two-day summit will take place at the five-star St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort.
Global terminal operators are also helping to close the US$48 billion infrastructure gap which, according to transportation expert Dr John Tambi of The New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), has seen infrastructure development pay off with over 50% growth performance for the continent, and offering more competitive goods pricing, previously driven up by weak transportation links.
According to HE Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, the Emirates is keen to expand its Africa remit and is eyeing the continent for opportunities in the areas of transportation, logistics and ports services among other sectors with a number of UAE companies such as DP World, which now operates and/or owns five ports from Algeria to Senegal, making significant investments in burgeoning markets.
“Governments in Africa are also keen to capitalise on the UAE’s own infrastructure example – and its expertise in delivering on port efficiency and developing finely tuned operations that support economic growth rates,” said Hayman.
Increased vessel sizes and associated operational costs mean that fast tracking cargo movement whilst in port is a priority for international shipping companies, in turn driving a new level of terminal activity which requires capacity and operational maximisation.
Port utilisation in the region is predicted to grow from 70 to 80% over the next decade as consumer growth continues, especially in West Africa, and as global operators develop their operations and efficiency improves.
Drewry Shipping Consultants reports strong growth prospects for container trade, particularly in North Africa, and new potential for port operators on the South and East coast where PPP models are being touted by countries such as Kenya and South Africa. Kenya is also a key access provider for its land-locked African neighbours while Drewry also points to Senegal, Nigera and Angola as ‘ones to watch’ as West Africa’s infrastructure framework takes shape.
Waterborne tourism and marina development tabled for Abu Dhabi event
GCC region continues with port infrastructure investment plans as cruise sector calls for customised facilities; resurgence in marina development from Bahrain to Oman
Maritime industry experts speaking at the third annual edition of the World Ports & Trade Summit will turn their attention from seaborne trade issues to cruise and marina development, as global industry leaders, waterborne tourism experts and port operators return to Abu Dhabi from 19-20 March 2013.
Held in strategic partnership with the Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC), the two-day conference programme will include a special session on cruise and marina tourism in the Gulf and Middle East on March 20th, as growth for the GCC hospitality market is forecast to grow at an annual rate of 8.1%, reaching US$28.3 billion by 2016.
Industry leaders, port operators and tourism experts will join in an interactive discussion looking at the development of cruise facilities in the region and the expanding portfolio of regional marinas driven by demand from high net-worth super-yacht owners in the Gulf.
“There is a compelling argument for world-class super yacht marina development and ongoing investment into the creation of international standard cruise hubs as key contributors to the bigger picture for seaborne trade in the region,” said Chris Hayman, Chairman of Seatrade, organisers of the World Ports & Trade Summit.
The panel line-up for the conference session includes Eamon Bradshaw, CEO, Galway Port, Helen Beck, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises & Regional Director, International Representatives - Europe, Middle East & Africa; Gary Groenewold, VP, Westrec Marinas & Board Member of the International Super-yacht Society and current chairman of the Association of Marine Industries, USA; and Hamad Mohammed Bin Mejren, Executive Director - Business Tourism, DTCM.
According to Helen Beck of Royal Caribbean International, one of the ongoing challenges for cruise ship operators in the region is the lack of variety of ports of call currently available and the actual location of the facilities, as she explains: “Most of the berths for cruise vessels in the region are located within commercial shipping ports, which means that they are not necessarily well-suited to the particular needs of cruise vessels and the passengers. There has been very welcome investment by the port and tourism authorities in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Muscat, however we need this example to be followed by other ports and destinations around the region.”
Beck also reports a “very healthy” 2012/13 cruise season, with most schedules virtually sold-out however, the future appeal of the region is dependent on investment into dedicated cruise hubs. “We encourage all of our port partners to interact with the cruise lines to really understand the needs of each cruise company - both from the marine and guest experience perspective; and it is very important that governments and official bodies work together to develop an integrated cruise tourism strategy across all [relevant] authorities to ensure that everyone is aligned in a common vision,” she said.
With development of a number of regional marinas set to resume after being placed on hold during the financial downturn, new waterfront destinations are also being launched from Bahrain to the Sinai Peninsula.
“We are seeing active marina development across the Gulf. Bahrain is restarting US$80 million worth of mixed-use projects with the Muharraq coastal site and delayed King Fasial Corniche seafront project both given the green light; and Oman plans a new 100-berth marina project as part of the Jebel Sifah development, and has already launched the first 120 berths at its super-yacht Almouj Marina on The Wave in Muscat,” said Hayman.
An annual calendar event for global economists, port authorities, terminal operators, shipping companies, global cargo owners and investors, the two-day summit will take place at the five-star St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort.
Organised by Seatrade, the World Ports & Trade Summit is held in strategic partnership with the Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC).
For more information on World Ports & Trade Summit 2013, please log on toworldportsandtrade.com
About Seatrade
Seatrade has been leading the way in comprehensive global maritime communication for over 40 years. Its publications, events, management training, award schemes and websites cover every aspect of cruise and maritime activity and are known and respected around the globe.
Seatrade’s headquarters are based in the UK, with regional offices in Dubai, Singapore, as well as representatives in all major maritime centres and cruise destinations across the globe. Seatrade successfully organises several maritime related exhibitions and events in the region
About Abu Dhabi Ports Company
Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC) is a developer of ports, industrial zones, trade & logistics zones, and related services. Its purpose is to create a sustainable growth platform that spurs economic expansion and diversification for Abu Dhabi. ADPC has been established by Emiri decree number 6, 2006 and has been mandated to construct, develop and manage all ports and related infrastructure in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi (with the exception of military and oil & gas ports).
For more information, please contact:
Nathalie Viselé
Director
Shamal Marketing Communications
PO Box 502701
Office 106, Al Sufouh Tower
Dubai Media City
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Office: +971 4 3652711 I Direct : +971 4 3652712 I Mobile : +971 50 4576525
Fax:+971 4 4278703
E-mail: nathalie@smc-pr.com I Web site: smc-pr.com
EL EVENTO MARÍTIMO DE ASIA DE MÁS RÁPIDO CRECIMIENTO
Sea Asia, en su 4 ª edición, vuelve a Singapur con un aspecto totalmente nuevo, el programa de la conferencia convincente y características interesantes. La reunión se celebrará en la emblemática Marina Bay Sands de Singapur 9-11 abril de 2013. Se espera que el evento alcance nuevas cotas en términos de tamaño, número de participantes, así como el perfil de exposición.
El evento ha crecido de un mero espacio m² 8000 con 7.000 participantes en su primera exhibición en 2007, a más de 13.000 metros cuadrados con más de 12.000 profesionales internacionales marítimas en el 2011, representando 70 países.
Singapore, Monday 18 February 2013
Challenges for maritime in a season of uncertainty
Industry leaders bullish on key points for discussion at Sea Asia
More than 14,000 participants anticipated at top maritime event in Singapore
Although times are tough for the shipping industry, even in proportionately robust and resilient Asia, early thoughts and opinions of business leaders due to present at this April’s Sea Asia conference in Singapore are refreshingly positive. Speaking in advance, they seek to confront challenges head on, reinvent outdated systems and processes, and investigate creative solutions rather than simply bemoan the state of the industry.
Mr Tan Chong Meng, Group CEO of PSA International, who will be chairing the session on The Asian Voice – Liner Shipping on the first day of the event (Tuesday 9 April), had this to say:
“The liner shipping industry is a key backbone of international commerce and is critical to the smooth flow of trade goods globally. The last few years have been tough going for the shipping lines in the face of anaemic economic growth and weak consumer sentiments around the world. Beyond looking at the immediate challenges of depressed freight rates, high bunkering costs and excess capacity, it would be interesting to also examine how changes in global trade patterns, liner consolidation, advances in technology and sustainability issues can potentially alter the face of the shipping industry in the medium and long term.”
With more than 14,000 industry professionals expected to participate, Sea Asia is set to witness its largest gathering yet. The conference, with its theme The Asian Voice in World Shipping, is a highlight.
Thomas Knudsen, CEO of Maersk Line, Asia Pacific Region, due to speak in the Liner session, said: “With this year’s challenging economic and industry outlook, it will certainly be interesting to hear how the industry is working to stay profitable despite the adverse market conditions, while also preparing for upcoming environmental legislations.”
Mr Knudsen will be joined in the Liner session by Kenneth Glenn, President, APL Co Ltd, S.S. Teo, Managing Director, Pacific International Lines (Pte) Limited, Andy Tung, Chief Executive Officer, Orient Overseas Container Line Limited, and Xu Li Rong, President, China Shipping (Group) Company.
The second session on The Asian Voice, devoted to Bulk Shipping, also drew advance comments from speakers.
Douglas Hsu, Chairman and CEO of Far Eastern Group, commented on the significance of fuel: “Overcapacity, rising fuel costs, onslaught of technology and environmental awareness are among the forces that are driving the shipping industry to reinvent itself. This tsunami of challenges demand an urgent need to transform the way the shipping business is done. Only by making radical changes can the industry survive and thrive in the new and increasingly volatile global economy.”
“For today’s ship owner, two of the bigger issues are China, and Fuel Efficiency,” said Per Wistoft, CEO of Brightoil Shipping, “and I look forward to meaningful discussions about both at Sea Asia.”
Mr Hsu and Mr Wistoft will be joined in the Bulk Shipping session by Kenneth Koo, Group Chairman & CEO of Tai Chong Steamship, and Andreas Sohmen-Pao, Chief Executive Officer, BW Group.
The middle day of Sea Asia, Wednesday 10 April, has been officially designated Offshore Marine Day.
Among the day’s content will be a panel of senior industry figures discussing matters such as China's investment in offshore exploration, the dynamic of offshore development in Asia Pacific and how regional activity will drive demand for fixed, floating and subsea units, the commercial climate for support providers, and other market outlooks. Among the panellists will be Paul Aston, Managing Partner at Holman Fenwick Willan, Y Y Chow, Chief Operating Officer at Keppel Offshore & Marine, and Lionel Lee, Managing Director of Ezra Holdings Ltd.
During Sea Asia’s technical day, Thursday 11 April, co-organised in association with SNAMES, ASMI, IMarEST and the Singapore Maritime Institute, technology at shipyards and the environmental challenges of green shipping will be in the spotlight.
“It’s very encouraging to hear such positive thoughts voiced in the lead-up to Sea Asia,” said Christopher Hayman, chairman of Seatrade, co-organisers of the event alongside the Singapore Maritime Foundation. “I’m sure Sea Asia’s conference will provide the industry with frank and objective criticism, though at the same time shine a light forwards, one that many will use to guide them not just in Asia, but globally.”
“This is a time for caution and for economy”, he agreed. “But simultaneously, we are seeing creative new approaches to business as firms accept the need to be more flexible and dynamic.” Mr Hayman said he was convinced this is why exhibition booking figures are at their highest and the number of international visitors is expected to smash that of the last edition in 2011.
Sea Asia is open for three days, 9-11 April 2013, at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.
Sea Asia is principally sponsored by Anglo Eastern, DNB Bank ASA, Executive Ship Management, Keppel Offshore & Marine, Lloyd’s Register, NOL Group, and PSA Corporation Limited.
Other sponsors include ABB Pte. Ltd, ABS, Admiralty, AXS Marine, Class NK, DNV Petroleum Services, DVB Bank, GAC Group, GL, Holman Fenwick Willan, Ideocean, Lukoil Marine Lubricants, M3 Marine Group Pte Ltd, Marshall Islands Registry, MTM Ship Management Pte Ltd, Pacific International Lines, RightShip, Siemens Pte Ltd, Singapore Telecommunications Ltd., Standard Chartered Bank, The Standard P&I Club, and Thome Group of Companies.
Visit www.sea-asia.com for more information.
About the Organisers:
Seatrade
Covering the maritime globe: www.seatrade-global.com
Established over 40 years ago, Seatrade is a leader in maritime and cruise publications, conferences and exhibitions, training, awards and other special projects. Regular events include international trade exhibitions and conferences across all maritime sectors including Sea Asia and Seatrade Middle East Maritime, management training courses for shipping professionals, training seminars for travel agents and maritime award schemes, including the prestigious Seatrade Awards held at the Guildhall in London. Seatrade publications include magazines, supplements and yearbooks, whilst daily maritime news is provided online by Seatrade Asia Online (www.seatrade-asia.com).
About the Singapore Maritime Foundation
Established in 2004, the Singapore Maritime Foundation (SMF) is a private sector-led organisation that seeks to develop and promote Singapore as an International Maritime Centre (IMC). As the representative voice for the commercial players of the maritime industry, SMF seeks to forge strong partnerships with the public and private sectors of the maritime industry. SMF spearheads initiatives to promote the diverse clusters of the maritime industry in Singapore and at international frontiers, and to attract young talents to join the sector. SMF is directed by its Board of Directors which comprises prominent leaders in the Singapore maritime community. For details, visit www.smf.com.sg.
About Singapore Maritime Week
Singapore Maritime Week (SMW) is the leading maritime event in Singapore. Driven by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), SMW gathers the international maritime community in Singapore for a week of conferences, dialogues, exhibitions and social events in celebration of all things maritime. The range of activities and events organised by MPA, the industry, and research and educational institutions, as well as the cosmopolitan profile of participants, reflect the vibrancy and diversity of Singapore as a major international maritime centre.
SMW has grown in size and significance since the inaugural event in 2006, and is attracting more participants and event organisers from around the world. Participants can experience something new every year, as activities are added to the line-up, and as eminent speakers share their insights and participate in dialogues on topical maritime issues. This dynamism and the good range of issues discussed during SMW are major draws for maritime decision-makers, as are the many business networking platforms. This is why Singapore Maritime Week is all about PEOPLE, IDEAS and OPPORTUNITIES for the maritime community.
For more information and the full calendar of events, please visit www.smw.sg.
Helix Media: public & media relations for SEA ASIA 2013:
Edward Ion / Toby Ingram: +65 6222 6375
Mobile: +65 9111 6871 / +65 9176 4273
Email: edward.ion@helixmedia.asia / toby.ingram@helixmedia.asia
Más información
http://www.sea-asia.com/
http://www.sea-asia.com/index.php/visitors/visitor-registration
Reciprocal growth opportunities as UAE builds on regional hub status and emerging African powerhouse nations look to develop world-class port operations using successful UAE model
The vast continent of Africa will take centre stage at the 2013 World Ports & Trade Summit, which takes place in Abu Dhabi from 19-20 March, with a special focus session on day two of the event to examine opportunities in the region for both trade and infrastructure development.
Growth in seaborne trade between China and Africa is already benefiting UAE ports, as the world’s third largest economy and the emerging African continent rely on the Emirates’ trading gateway status, further boosted by growth in bilateral trade between South Africa and the UAE, which was valued at almost US$2 billion in 2011.
“In the first decade of the millennium, trade between African countries and the GCC jumped by 270% to reach more than US$18 billion per annum, and this shows no sign of slowing down with added impetus – particularly from the UAE - generated by government and private sector investment interest in West and Central Africa, following successful forays into East, South and North Africa,” said Chris Hayman, Chairman of Seatrade.
The Africa Focus, which will take place on Wednesday 20th March, features a two-in-one session that will examine port development and trade opportunities in Africa.
Held under the patronage of H.H. General Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, WP&TS is an annual calendar event for global economists, port authorities, terminal operators, shipping companies, global cargo owners and investors, the two-day summit will take place at the five-star St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort.
Global terminal operators are also helping to close the US$48 billion infrastructure gap which, according to transportation expert Dr John Tambi of The New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), has seen infrastructure development pay off with over 50% growth performance for the continent, and offering more competitive goods pricing, previously driven up by weak transportation links.
According to HE Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade, the Emirates is keen to expand its Africa remit and is eyeing the continent for opportunities in the areas of transportation, logistics and ports services among other sectors with a number of UAE companies such as DP World, which now operates and/or owns five ports from Algeria to Senegal, making significant investments in burgeoning markets.
“Governments in Africa are also keen to capitalise on the UAE’s own infrastructure example – and its expertise in delivering on port efficiency and developing finely tuned operations that support economic growth rates,” said Hayman.
Increased vessel sizes and associated operational costs mean that fast tracking cargo movement whilst in port is a priority for international shipping companies, in turn driving a new level of terminal activity which requires capacity and operational maximisation.
Port utilisation in the region is predicted to grow from 70 to 80% over the next decade as consumer growth continues, especially in West Africa, and as global operators develop their operations and efficiency improves.
Drewry Shipping Consultants reports strong growth prospects for container trade, particularly in North Africa, and new potential for port operators on the South and East coast where PPP models are being touted by countries such as Kenya and South Africa. Kenya is also a key access provider for its land-locked African neighbours while Drewry also points to Senegal, Nigera and Angola as ‘ones to watch’ as West Africa’s infrastructure framework takes shape.
Waterborne tourism and marina development tabled for Abu Dhabi event
GCC region continues with port infrastructure investment plans as cruise sector calls for customised facilities; resurgence in marina development from Bahrain to Oman
Maritime industry experts speaking at the third annual edition of the World Ports & Trade Summit will turn their attention from seaborne trade issues to cruise and marina development, as global industry leaders, waterborne tourism experts and port operators return to Abu Dhabi from 19-20 March 2013.
Held in strategic partnership with the Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC), the two-day conference programme will include a special session on cruise and marina tourism in the Gulf and Middle East on March 20th, as growth for the GCC hospitality market is forecast to grow at an annual rate of 8.1%, reaching US$28.3 billion by 2016.
Industry leaders, port operators and tourism experts will join in an interactive discussion looking at the development of cruise facilities in the region and the expanding portfolio of regional marinas driven by demand from high net-worth super-yacht owners in the Gulf.
“There is a compelling argument for world-class super yacht marina development and ongoing investment into the creation of international standard cruise hubs as key contributors to the bigger picture for seaborne trade in the region,” said Chris Hayman, Chairman of Seatrade, organisers of the World Ports & Trade Summit.
The panel line-up for the conference session includes Eamon Bradshaw, CEO, Galway Port, Helen Beck, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises & Regional Director, International Representatives - Europe, Middle East & Africa; Gary Groenewold, VP, Westrec Marinas & Board Member of the International Super-yacht Society and current chairman of the Association of Marine Industries, USA; and Hamad Mohammed Bin Mejren, Executive Director - Business Tourism, DTCM.
According to Helen Beck of Royal Caribbean International, one of the ongoing challenges for cruise ship operators in the region is the lack of variety of ports of call currently available and the actual location of the facilities, as she explains: “Most of the berths for cruise vessels in the region are located within commercial shipping ports, which means that they are not necessarily well-suited to the particular needs of cruise vessels and the passengers. There has been very welcome investment by the port and tourism authorities in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Muscat, however we need this example to be followed by other ports and destinations around the region.”
Beck also reports a “very healthy” 2012/13 cruise season, with most schedules virtually sold-out however, the future appeal of the region is dependent on investment into dedicated cruise hubs. “We encourage all of our port partners to interact with the cruise lines to really understand the needs of each cruise company - both from the marine and guest experience perspective; and it is very important that governments and official bodies work together to develop an integrated cruise tourism strategy across all [relevant] authorities to ensure that everyone is aligned in a common vision,” she said.
With development of a number of regional marinas set to resume after being placed on hold during the financial downturn, new waterfront destinations are also being launched from Bahrain to the Sinai Peninsula.
“We are seeing active marina development across the Gulf. Bahrain is restarting US$80 million worth of mixed-use projects with the Muharraq coastal site and delayed King Fasial Corniche seafront project both given the green light; and Oman plans a new 100-berth marina project as part of the Jebel Sifah development, and has already launched the first 120 berths at its super-yacht Almouj Marina on The Wave in Muscat,” said Hayman.
An annual calendar event for global economists, port authorities, terminal operators, shipping companies, global cargo owners and investors, the two-day summit will take place at the five-star St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort.
Organised by Seatrade, the World Ports & Trade Summit is held in strategic partnership with the Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC).
For more information on World Ports & Trade Summit 2013, please log on toworldportsandtrade.com
About Seatrade
Seatrade has been leading the way in comprehensive global maritime communication for over 40 years. Its publications, events, management training, award schemes and websites cover every aspect of cruise and maritime activity and are known and respected around the globe.
Seatrade’s headquarters are based in the UK, with regional offices in Dubai, Singapore, as well as representatives in all major maritime centres and cruise destinations across the globe. Seatrade successfully organises several maritime related exhibitions and events in the region
About Abu Dhabi Ports Company
Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC) is a developer of ports, industrial zones, trade & logistics zones, and related services. Its purpose is to create a sustainable growth platform that spurs economic expansion and diversification for Abu Dhabi. ADPC has been established by Emiri decree number 6, 2006 and has been mandated to construct, develop and manage all ports and related infrastructure in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi (with the exception of military and oil & gas ports).
For more information, please contact:
Nathalie Viselé
Director
Shamal Marketing Communications
PO Box 502701
Office 106, Al Sufouh Tower
Dubai Media City
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Office: +971 4 3652711 I Direct : +971 4 3652712 I Mobile : +971 50 4576525
Fax:+971 4 4278703
E-mail: nathalie@smc-pr.com I Web site: smc-pr.com
EL EVENTO MARÍTIMO DE ASIA DE MÁS RÁPIDO CRECIMIENTO
Sea Asia, en su 4 ª edición, vuelve a Singapur con un aspecto totalmente nuevo, el programa de la conferencia convincente y características interesantes. La reunión se celebrará en la emblemática Marina Bay Sands de Singapur 9-11 abril de 2013. Se espera que el evento alcance nuevas cotas en términos de tamaño, número de participantes, así como el perfil de exposición.
El evento ha crecido de un mero espacio m² 8000 con 7.000 participantes en su primera exhibición en 2007, a más de 13.000 metros cuadrados con más de 12.000 profesionales internacionales marítimas en el 2011, representando 70 países.
Singapore, Monday 18 February 2013
Challenges for maritime in a season of uncertainty
Industry leaders bullish on key points for discussion at Sea Asia
More than 14,000 participants anticipated at top maritime event in Singapore
Although times are tough for the shipping industry, even in proportionately robust and resilient Asia, early thoughts and opinions of business leaders due to present at this April’s Sea Asia conference in Singapore are refreshingly positive. Speaking in advance, they seek to confront challenges head on, reinvent outdated systems and processes, and investigate creative solutions rather than simply bemoan the state of the industry.
Mr Tan Chong Meng, Group CEO of PSA International, who will be chairing the session on The Asian Voice – Liner Shipping on the first day of the event (Tuesday 9 April), had this to say:
“The liner shipping industry is a key backbone of international commerce and is critical to the smooth flow of trade goods globally. The last few years have been tough going for the shipping lines in the face of anaemic economic growth and weak consumer sentiments around the world. Beyond looking at the immediate challenges of depressed freight rates, high bunkering costs and excess capacity, it would be interesting to also examine how changes in global trade patterns, liner consolidation, advances in technology and sustainability issues can potentially alter the face of the shipping industry in the medium and long term.”
With more than 14,000 industry professionals expected to participate, Sea Asia is set to witness its largest gathering yet. The conference, with its theme The Asian Voice in World Shipping, is a highlight.
Thomas Knudsen, CEO of Maersk Line, Asia Pacific Region, due to speak in the Liner session, said: “With this year’s challenging economic and industry outlook, it will certainly be interesting to hear how the industry is working to stay profitable despite the adverse market conditions, while also preparing for upcoming environmental legislations.”
Mr Knudsen will be joined in the Liner session by Kenneth Glenn, President, APL Co Ltd, S.S. Teo, Managing Director, Pacific International Lines (Pte) Limited, Andy Tung, Chief Executive Officer, Orient Overseas Container Line Limited, and Xu Li Rong, President, China Shipping (Group) Company.
The second session on The Asian Voice, devoted to Bulk Shipping, also drew advance comments from speakers.
Douglas Hsu, Chairman and CEO of Far Eastern Group, commented on the significance of fuel: “Overcapacity, rising fuel costs, onslaught of technology and environmental awareness are among the forces that are driving the shipping industry to reinvent itself. This tsunami of challenges demand an urgent need to transform the way the shipping business is done. Only by making radical changes can the industry survive and thrive in the new and increasingly volatile global economy.”
“For today’s ship owner, two of the bigger issues are China, and Fuel Efficiency,” said Per Wistoft, CEO of Brightoil Shipping, “and I look forward to meaningful discussions about both at Sea Asia.”
Mr Hsu and Mr Wistoft will be joined in the Bulk Shipping session by Kenneth Koo, Group Chairman & CEO of Tai Chong Steamship, and Andreas Sohmen-Pao, Chief Executive Officer, BW Group.
The middle day of Sea Asia, Wednesday 10 April, has been officially designated Offshore Marine Day.
Among the day’s content will be a panel of senior industry figures discussing matters such as China's investment in offshore exploration, the dynamic of offshore development in Asia Pacific and how regional activity will drive demand for fixed, floating and subsea units, the commercial climate for support providers, and other market outlooks. Among the panellists will be Paul Aston, Managing Partner at Holman Fenwick Willan, Y Y Chow, Chief Operating Officer at Keppel Offshore & Marine, and Lionel Lee, Managing Director of Ezra Holdings Ltd.
During Sea Asia’s technical day, Thursday 11 April, co-organised in association with SNAMES, ASMI, IMarEST and the Singapore Maritime Institute, technology at shipyards and the environmental challenges of green shipping will be in the spotlight.
“It’s very encouraging to hear such positive thoughts voiced in the lead-up to Sea Asia,” said Christopher Hayman, chairman of Seatrade, co-organisers of the event alongside the Singapore Maritime Foundation. “I’m sure Sea Asia’s conference will provide the industry with frank and objective criticism, though at the same time shine a light forwards, one that many will use to guide them not just in Asia, but globally.”
“This is a time for caution and for economy”, he agreed. “But simultaneously, we are seeing creative new approaches to business as firms accept the need to be more flexible and dynamic.” Mr Hayman said he was convinced this is why exhibition booking figures are at their highest and the number of international visitors is expected to smash that of the last edition in 2011.
Sea Asia is open for three days, 9-11 April 2013, at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore.
Sea Asia is principally sponsored by Anglo Eastern, DNB Bank ASA, Executive Ship Management, Keppel Offshore & Marine, Lloyd’s Register, NOL Group, and PSA Corporation Limited.
Other sponsors include ABB Pte. Ltd, ABS, Admiralty, AXS Marine, Class NK, DNV Petroleum Services, DVB Bank, GAC Group, GL, Holman Fenwick Willan, Ideocean, Lukoil Marine Lubricants, M3 Marine Group Pte Ltd, Marshall Islands Registry, MTM Ship Management Pte Ltd, Pacific International Lines, RightShip, Siemens Pte Ltd, Singapore Telecommunications Ltd., Standard Chartered Bank, The Standard P&I Club, and Thome Group of Companies.
Visit www.sea-asia.com for more information.
About the Organisers:
Seatrade
Covering the maritime globe: www.seatrade-global.com
Established over 40 years ago, Seatrade is a leader in maritime and cruise publications, conferences and exhibitions, training, awards and other special projects. Regular events include international trade exhibitions and conferences across all maritime sectors including Sea Asia and Seatrade Middle East Maritime, management training courses for shipping professionals, training seminars for travel agents and maritime award schemes, including the prestigious Seatrade Awards held at the Guildhall in London. Seatrade publications include magazines, supplements and yearbooks, whilst daily maritime news is provided online by Seatrade Asia Online (www.seatrade-asia.com).
About the Singapore Maritime Foundation
Established in 2004, the Singapore Maritime Foundation (SMF) is a private sector-led organisation that seeks to develop and promote Singapore as an International Maritime Centre (IMC). As the representative voice for the commercial players of the maritime industry, SMF seeks to forge strong partnerships with the public and private sectors of the maritime industry. SMF spearheads initiatives to promote the diverse clusters of the maritime industry in Singapore and at international frontiers, and to attract young talents to join the sector. SMF is directed by its Board of Directors which comprises prominent leaders in the Singapore maritime community. For details, visit www.smf.com.sg.
About Singapore Maritime Week
Singapore Maritime Week (SMW) is the leading maritime event in Singapore. Driven by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), SMW gathers the international maritime community in Singapore for a week of conferences, dialogues, exhibitions and social events in celebration of all things maritime. The range of activities and events organised by MPA, the industry, and research and educational institutions, as well as the cosmopolitan profile of participants, reflect the vibrancy and diversity of Singapore as a major international maritime centre.
SMW has grown in size and significance since the inaugural event in 2006, and is attracting more participants and event organisers from around the world. Participants can experience something new every year, as activities are added to the line-up, and as eminent speakers share their insights and participate in dialogues on topical maritime issues. This dynamism and the good range of issues discussed during SMW are major draws for maritime decision-makers, as are the many business networking platforms. This is why Singapore Maritime Week is all about PEOPLE, IDEAS and OPPORTUNITIES for the maritime community.
For more information and the full calendar of events, please visit www.smw.sg.
Helix Media: public & media relations for SEA ASIA 2013:
Edward Ion / Toby Ingram: +65 6222 6375
Mobile: +65 9111 6871 / +65 9176 4273
Email: edward.ion@helixmedia.asia / toby.ingram@helixmedia.asia
Más información
http://www.sea-asia.com/
http://www.sea-asia.com/index.php/visitors/visitor-registration
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