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Oct 14, 2009 Efficiency strategies to maximize performance and growth in China Ports During an economic slowdown, China continues to develop its port infrastructure in preparation to sustain current and new trade activity for the economic recovery. Along with rapid expansion, ports are looking for strategies to increase operations, raise efficiency and reduce operational costs.

Attended by international senior executives, top-level Chinese government officials, the National Development and Reform Commission, and leaders in shipping and ports, the China Port Expansion and Efficiency Congress 2009 organized by Noppen with the support of the Tianjin Municipal Government took place on 24-25 September in Tianjin, China, focusing on exploring methods to facilitate port expansion and improve port efficiency. Highlights of the congress included the presentation of opportunities and challenges of current port projects, and the trend of further port development in the areas of automation and safety.

John P. LaRue, Executive Director of the Port of Corpus Christi (United States) stressed the advantages of increased cooperation between Chinese and U.S. ports citing the maximization of existing and future investment opportunities. Also stressed were goals of eco-partnerships to ignite action on environmental concerns, which will ultimately promote sustainable economic growth and facilitate next generation economic development.

J. Chris Lytle, Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the Port of Long Beach, also spoke about environmental awareness by balancing economic and ecological challenges through ensuring sustainable growth and green port development. Tim Smith, Chief Executive, North Asia, of Maersk, offered a shipper’s perspective of desirable attributes of a port to the attendees, primarily in terms of reducing emissions, integrating sustainability into business models, shaping environmental regulation through collaboration, and investing in new technologies. Regional Advisory Manager James Wu of DNV, Greater China, discussed promoting safety excellence in rough waters and Anthony McAuliffe, Asian Area Technical Services Manager of Dow Corning, covered IBTEs for marine infrastructure projects.

Other keynote speakers at the congress included Robin Dodridge, Director of Corporate Operations of Dover Harbour Board; Sui Wei, Vice Researcher of Integrated Transport Department NDRC; Haruyoshi Shina, Managing Director of Kobe Port Terminal Corporation; and Chico Liu, General Manager of The Choice Management Technologies Co., Ltd.

Topics discussed include optimizing efficiency through facilitating work-flow efficiency, promoting safety excellence, performance management, and asset integration trends in China.