The 2024 North Bund International Shipping Forum kicked off on October 22, marking its fourth consecutive year hosted at this venue.
Four years ago, the planning for the Shanghai International Shipping Center under the 14th Five-Year Plan emphasized leveraging the economic advantages of the shipping headquarters in the North Bund area.
It aims to attract influential shipping companies and international organizations, thereby establishing a core area for high-end shipping services. Through meticulous planning and execution over the years, this region has delivered impressive results.
Currently, over 25 percent of the shipping companies in Shanghai are located in Hongkou, accounting for nearly 70 percent of the city's shipping capacity, with about 80 percent of international shipping capacity concentrated here.
Notably, the number of global top 50 container shipping companies with headquarters, subsidiaries, or representative offices in Hongkou has risen from 12 to 15 in just four years.
The influx of leading enterprises reflects Hongkou's potential as a high-end shipping service hub, providing substantial support for the local shipping industry.
In 2023, the Singapore-based X-PRESS Shipping established its China headquarters in Hongkou. Founded in 1972, X-PRESS is now the world's 14th largest shipping company and the largest independent marine carrier globally.
“A century ago, Hongkou North Bund had a storied maritime journey. Today, it has become a hub for shipping service headquarters, attracting global shipping giants and enhancing its high-end service ecosystem,” said Yan Hansong, general manager of the X-PRESS China.
The previous year, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) announced the establishment of a Shanghai representative office in Hongkou, further enhancing its international influence.
The Grimaldi Group, a renowned Italian shipping company ranked 33rd globally, decided to establish its China headquarters in the North Bund.
The robust industrial foundation of Hongkou is attributed to its proactive strategies and nurturing approach towards the shipping sector.
The district has continually increased support for the industry and facilitated deep integration with related sectors, forming a comprehensive and diverse industrial landscape.
Recently, global logistics leaders such as Rhenus Logistic have also set up their China headquarters in Hongkou.
“From 2019 to 2024, our employee count grew by 40 percent. The concentration of shipping resources in North Bund provides not only a superior working environment but also enables us to swiftly connect with client needs, driving our business growth in mainland China,” said Cliff Xu from Rhenus.
The achievements of Hongkou in establishing itself as a core area for high-end shipping services are not just rooted in a solid industrial foundation but also in exceptional shipping services.
Recently, the district has focused on maritime arbitration services and has established several high-end shipping service institutions, including the Shanghai International Arbitration Academy.
The North Bund Maritime Dispute Prevention and Resolution Center has been created to facilitate maritime commercial arbitration, marking a significant breakthrough with the first foreign-related maritime arbitration case held and resolved in North Bund.
The first maritime temporary arbitration case involving overseas parties was heard in North Bund, enhancing its reputation in international maritime legal services.
Sun Haihua, Deputy Director of the Shanghai Arbitration Committee, emphasized the importance of the organization’s role in creating a market-oriented, rule-of-law, and international environment for shipping operators.
Moreover, Hongkou is promoting green and low-carbon development in shipping. The establishment of the Marine Bureau’s Ship Energy Efficiency Management Center in North Bund and the formation of an international shipping green development community are significant steps in this direction.
The accomplishments of Hongkou's high-end shipping service core area have not only gained domestic recognition but have also drawn significant international attention.
With the success of four consecutive North Bund International Shipping Forums, the area has emerged as a new landmark in the global shipping industry.
The forum attracts shipping elites and scholars from around the world, providing a platform for exchanging ideas, sharing experiences, and exploring collaboration to promote high-quality development in global shipping.
This has further enhanced North Bund’s international profile and established it as a crucial hub for dialogue in the maritime industry.
This year, North Bund welcomed several top international cruise liners, including Seven Seas and Silversea, contributing to a vibrant influx of foreign tourists embarking on explorative journeys in China.
High-profile events, such as the Hongkou Shipping Service High-Quality Development Conference and the 40th Anniversary Forum for China Shipowners Mutual Assurance, showcase the vibrant development of Hongkou's shipping industry while elevating its profile in the international maritime community.
The North Bund is a testament to a revitalized shipping landscape, where maritime landmarks and urban aesthetics intertwine, collectively charting a new chapter in international shipping, the district government said.