ENG-2002 — Page 315

TRANSPORT

To make the Hong Kong Shipping Register (HKSR) more competitive, measures for improvements have already been introduced since 1999. These improvements include reduced fees, streamlined ship registration procedures, provision of one-stop-shop services and a simplified but still rigorous survey cycle. All the above measures aim at lowering shipowners' operating costs while maintaining Hong Kong's reputation as a quality register. As a world-class shipping register with a reputation for excellent quality and service, the HKSR has received support from major shipowners in the region.

To enhance the competitiveness of the shipping industry, Hong Kong is keen to negotiate double taxation relief arrangements on shipping income with its trading partners. Agreements for the avoidance of double taxation in respect of shipping income signed with the United Kingdom and the Netherlands in 2000 have been in effect in Hong Kong since April 2002. Together with similar arrangements with the United States and the Mainland as well as the confirmed provisions of reciprocal tax exemption with the tax authorities of New Zealand and the Republic of Korea, Hong Kong shipowners are exempt from tax on their international shipping income in five countries and the Mainland.

The board has also conducted a study to develop a competitive strategy and master plan to consolidate and secure Hong Kong's position as an International Maritime Centre. The 'Study to Strengthen Hong Kong's Role as an International Maritime Centre' identified new initiatives to enhance Hong Kong's attractiveness as a base for international maritime enterprises and to develop its maritime services.

Port Administration

The Marine Department administers the port. Its principal function is to ensure safety of navigation and efficiency of shipping activities in the waters of Hong Kong. This is achieved by comprehensive traffic management, harbour patrol, vessel traffic services, provision of mooring buoys and rigorous enforcement of major international maritime conventions.

The department liaises closely with shipping and commercial organisations through a number of advisory and consultative committees. Users and operators of port facilities can provide their advice in relation to port administration matters through these channels. The Port Operations Committee advises on efficient operations of the port and the Pilotage Advisory Committee advises on matters relating to pilotage services. Besides these, the Provisional Local Vessel Advisory Committee is concerned with the local craft matters and the Shipping Consultative Committee advises on the efficient operation of the Hong Kong Shipping Register and Hong Kong's participation in the International Maritime Organisation.

The Marine Department's website provides a wide range of information on the port and the Hong Kong Shipping Register. The home page also carries Marine Department notices and gives details of the department's services and facilities. Special features include a Hong Kong Shipping Directory in which Hong Kong-based marine services companies are listed, real-time movements of ocean-going vessels (OGVs) and river-trade cargo vessels in port, examination schedules for seafarers and verification of Port Clearance Permits issued to OGVs. Applications for certain port formalities can be submitted over the Internet.

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