06-Dec-2000

[7th December 2000] Hongkong International Terminals (HIT) marked a significant historical milestone by handling its 60 millionth container at a quayside ceremony on 6 December 2000.

The container was discharged from APL’s “TOURMALINE” during a quayside ceremony attended by executives from HIT and APL. The ceremony was officiated by Mr Eric Ip, Managing Director of HIT and Mr Ronald Widdows, Senior Vice President of Operations for APL.

In his welcome speech, Mr Ip expressed special thanks to HIT’s customers for their continued support and also acknowledged the Government for its free port policy that has helped foster the growth of Hong Kong’s economy and the success of her port operations.

“Since our inception, we have remained committed to serving our customers’ needs and delivering highly competitive, technology-rich value-added services. Through the innovation and development of leading edge technology applications we are committed to continuous improvement in productivity and the quality of services to our customers,” said Mr Ip.

At the ceremony, Mr Widdows of APL said, “HIT represents an important gateway to China. Our customers expect global solutions, and because of HIT, combined with our liner and logistics businesses, we are able to achieve this in Hong Kong.”

Aside from breaking the 60 millionth container milestone, HIT has also achieved other breakthroughs in year 2000. Notable achievements include: breaking the world record for most container moves per hour from a single vessel in April; the launching of Hong Kong’s first Barge ID systems; EDI invoicing linkages with customers; and the recent launching of Mobile Terminal Message services.

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