ENG-1993 — Page 319

PORT DEVELOPMENT

While there has been a huge increase in the number of containers handled mid-stream, it has not been possible to increase to the same extent the amount of land available for mid-stream operators. This is largely due to the demand for land by Hong Kong's other development projects. This problem is being addressed by the Port Development Board, which has initiated an extensive search for both short-term and permanent sites.

An increasing volume of goods trans-shipped to and from China through Hong Kong now moves by river boats down the Pearl River, for generations the gateway to trade with China. In 1993, 21 million tonnes of goods were handled by 76 000 river trade vessels in this manner. To cater specifically for this growth, private companies will build and operate a River Trade Terminal at Tuen Mun on the mainland north of Lantau. Expressions of interest in this connection were being evaluated within the government. The terminal is planned to be available in 1997.

Development Studies

The port development plan and its associated programme will be reviewed regularly to ensure that it remains relevant to Hong Kong's needs and that it can be achieved within the required time.

As part of this process, the PDB's Secretariat conducted a survey of Chinese ports, from the Vietnam border extending to the northeast along the coast of China. Although some ports showed potential for development, none emerged as a serious rival to Hong Kong as the main port to serve the rapidly developing South China region. While other ports in the region will be developed or expanded, these will be complementary to, rather than in competition with, Hong Kong.

Through the refinement of periodic strategy reviews and the regular monitoring of the progress and updating of the port development plan and programme, the competitive advantage of Hong Kong can be assured well into the 21st century.

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