GMD UPFRONT MESSAGE

 

RESILIENCE, FLEXIBILITY AND A COMMITMENT TO THE ENVIRONMENT

As the year draws to a close, we can expect 2023 to bring no fewer challenges than we have faced in the past few years. Without a doubt container shipping will continue to keep global trade moving forward, despite the multiple headwinds facing the industry, such as geopolitical tensions, high energy costs, rising inflation, a decline in consumer confidence that may tip the scale on supply and demand, shifting locations of manufacturing sites and fast-changing trading patterns.

This year we have been able to maintain our commitment to strengthening our network and investing in growth markets.

In Saudi Arabia we celebrated the inauguration of the Port of Jazan City for Primary and Downstream Industries (JCPDI). We have been partners with the Saudi Arabian government for more than 22 years and we will be working closely together to make Hutchison Ports Jazan a success and contribute to the Saudi Vision 2030.

In Egypt, we also expanded our co-operation with the Egyptian Government by signing agreements to develop and operate new container terminals in Ain Sokhna Port and El Dekheila Port.

Another new automated container terminal is being developed in the Netherlands, it is located in Europahaven, where Hutchison Ports ECT Delta and Hutchison Ports Delta II terminals are located. It is expected to start the first phase of operation in 2027.

Besides business, we have not forgotten to remain focused on our sustainability development and ensure we maintain green momentum.  Hutchison Ports Yantian participated in COP 27 which the local team leveraged the opportunity to share their sustainability efforts and experiences in addressing climate change and how the port is striving to build a leading international green, low-carbon port.

We are utilising renewable energy at BEST, our terminal in Barcelona, with the installation of solar panels on half a hectare of its buildings. It is estimated the power generated is equivalent to the yearly consumption of the terminal office building or 200 households.

The remaining phases of terminal construction in Thailand, Laemchabang, have been confirmed. The expansion of the smart terminal will include eco-friendly technology such as autonomous trucks, electric-powered tractors and automated equipment to reinforce its position as a leader in sustainable development.

All these actions are paving way for the group’s net zero roadmap, please stay tuned for more updates in future editions.

I am confident that Hutchison Ports has the resilience and resources to face the challenges that lie ahead and ensure we can excel when trade growth returns.

As this is a World Cup year, it is important to remember that we are also on a global stage and have to perform to the best of our abilities in order to succeed. The best football teams have management, players, staff and supporters working together towards a common ‘goal’. Our team has to embrace hard work, combined with moments of brilliance to ensure we can continue to score success.

Wishing you all happy holidays during the festive season and a healthy and prosperous Year of the Rabbit in 2023.

Eric Ip
Group Managing Director
Hutchison Ports