The world’s shipping industry is starting to switch to liquid natural gas (LNG) powered vessels in an effort to eliminate sulphur and cut greenhouse gas emissions.
Creating the infrastructure needed to handle LNG fuel for commercial ships could become a decisive factor in determining which of the world’s ports remain relevant in the future.
Singapore, the world’s largest bunkering (fuelling) port, is pushing ahead rapidly with its plans to
adapt to the new eco-friendly fuel.
But Hong Kong’s LNG bunkering infrastructure has not even got off the blocks, according to observers. And that inertia is likely to hamper its competitiveness as more of the world’s fleet make the switch to LNG.
“Hong Kong would be an ideal port to cater to this (LNG) market – and it would give shipping lines one more reason why [they] should not avoid a Hong Kong port call,” said Roberto Giannetta, executive director of the Hong Kong Liner Shipping Association.
