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Hong Kong Shipping Register ranks 15th in the world
The latest addition to the Hong Kong Shipping Register, a 29,195-ton container vessel, M.V. Trade Maple, was named in a ceremony in Korea this (Friday) morning, bringing to 564 the number of vessels on the Register.
The Director of Marine, Mr Ian Dale, who is in Korea for the ceremony, said he was pleased to see another quality vessel joining the Hong Kong Register.
A review conducted earlier this (March) month showed that in terms of tonnage Hong Kong is the 15th largest shipping register in the world with a total gross tonnage of over 8.3 million.
"In less than five years since its inception on December 3, 1990, the Hong Kong Shipping Register has established itself as a quality register known to the shipping community worldwide," Mr Dale said.
"This ranking is another indication that the Marine Department's aim of maintaining a quality register and a responsible maritime administration is well supported by shipowners who will not trade off quality for a lowering of safety and environmental standards." Mr Dale said.
Built in Korea, the 185-metre vessel is owned by Hong Kong-based Well Dragon Shipping Limited and managed by Wah Tung Shipping Agency Company Limited. She is capable of holding 2,200 TEUs (twenty-feet equivalent units).
The ship will sail on her maiden voyage this evening to Tianjin, China and then calls at a number of other ports in Asia before going to Europe.
Eleven other vessels including a stable mate of Trade Maple are currently in the process of joining the Hong Kong Shipping Register.
End/Friday, March 31, 1995