MESSAGE FROM GROUP MANAGING DIRECTOR
In 2025, we expect a year full of uncertainties as geopolitical risks persist amid wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, while trade barriers between the EU, the US and China reshape supply chains. A new round of restructuring of shipping alliances in container shipping adds more uncertainty. Similar to last year, industry analysts forecast a low single-digit growth in global container trade in 2025.
In Hong Kong, we are pleased that the Hong Kong SAR Government has promulgated an Action Plan on Green Maritime Fuel Bunkering in late 2024 to set out clear strategies and actions to promote development of Hong Kong into a high-quality green maritime fuel bunkering centre. This will help to ensure the Port of Hong Kong is well-positioned to cater for the increasing demand of green maritime fuels as shipping lines are stepping up their measures for decarbonisation including orders of new fleet powered by greener energy.
“At Modern Terminals, we have taken delivery of eco-RTGs and continued our electrification of vehicles and equipment in Hong Kong further reducing emissions.”
In DaChan Bay, besides new shipping services, a number of intermodal services covering Zhuzhou in Hunan Province and Ganzhou of Jiangxi Province have been launched providing quicker transit time and lower cost for exporters of these inland cities.
Sustainability will be high on global supply chain operators’ agendas in 2025 as the EU sharpens its focus on sustainability reporting and disclosures. At Modern Terminals, we have taken delivery of eco-RTGs and continued our electrification of vehicles and equipment in Hong Kong further reducing emissions. At DaChan Bay, we have been working closely with haulage contractors to replace diesel tractors with electric tractors. DaChan Bay Terminals has established the infrastructure to provide a battery swap station. We have also built a set of low-voltage shore power system at DaChan Bay to comply with regulatory requirements and meet the demands from our customers.
The support and dedication of our people is key to the success of our sustainability efforts. We have launched a communications programme in 2024 to enhance the awareness of sustainability among our people and the programme will become an ongoing initiative. In terms of environmental protection, we are glad to receive the Bronze Award in the Transport and Logistics sector of the 2023 Hong Kong Awards for Environmental Excellence, a reputable award programme in Hong Kong. For community programme, we have enhanced our Modern Terminals Summer Fitness Programme by increasing the number of participants and to provide more activities to the Alumni Group.
Without doubt, 2025 will continue to be full of challenges with all the uncertainties. Our dedicated teams in Hong Kong and DaChan Bay will continue to provide quality services to cater for the needs of shipping lines and shippers. In 2024, we were honoured that our Hong Kong operations have received an award from a shipping line to recognise our quality service which is the best among 20 terminals in the world; and the Elite Enterprise Partnership Distinguished Award from the Hong Kong Customs & Excise Department for three consecutive years since its inception as a recognition of our cooperation and contribution to the work of the Government department.
Last but not least, I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to our customers, business partners, and our people for all we have achieved in the past year. We look forward to continue working with you all to make 2025 another successful year!
Horace Lo
Group Managing Director