Ocean Network Express hosts 3rd Container Shipping Summit
SINGAPORE : Ocean Network Express (ONE) successfully hosted the 3rd Container Shipping Summit at Dejima, Nagasaki, on March 26, 2024, in collaboration with Anchor Ship Partners Co.,Ltd., The Juhachi-Shinwa Bank,Ltd., and Kozo Keikaku Engineering INC. This summit marks a year since the inaugural event in Nagasaki in 2023. The summit provided a platform for ONE staff, industry experts, and academic leaders from Japan, Singapore, and China to delve into the challenges facing the container shipping industry concerning the sustainable future of supply chains and society.
The summit commenced with an opening speech from Mr. Shiro Suzuki, the mayor of Nagasaki City, who emphasized the historical significance of Dejima, constructed in 1636, as a gateway for Japan’s modernization. He expressed hope that the summit would foster the development of the marine shipping industry and facilitate network expansion among participants.
Three pivotal topics framed the panel discussions: “Examining Next-Generation Fuels: Trends, Risks & Safety Culture”, “Decarbonizing Maritime Supply Chain: An Ecosystem Development Approach”, and “Nurturing Tomorrow’s Maritime Leaders: Talent & Development Strategies”.
Renowned researchers from leading institutions such as Kyushu University, Kobe University, Nagasaki University, National University of Singapore (NUS), Shanghai Maritime University, University of Tokyo, and Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology joined industry experts from organizations including the National Maritime Research Institute, MTI, Shanghai Merchant Ship Design and Research Institute (SDARI), and Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance.
The discussion on next-generation fuels scrutinized current trends, policy implications, and transitions toward decarbonization. Panellists underscored the necessity of establishing guidelines for handling the toxicity of ammonia fuel and addressed the challenges in expanding the use of methanol fuel.
Industry-academia collaboration was a focal point, advocating for sustainable mechanisms to share environmental costs and promoting decarbonization across supply chains. Participants emphasized the importance of standardizing global regulations and ensuring transparency and fairness in the adoption of green fuels.
The talent development session concentrated on attracting and nurturing professional talent within the maritime industry through collaborative efforts between companies, educational institutions, and maritime stakeholders. Discussions revolved around enhancing industry appeal, defining requisite skill sets, and communicating its attractiveness to prospective talents.
ONE, in partnership with stakeholders from research institutions and the maritime industry, continues to provide a platform that transcends boundaries, fostering dialogue and solutions to address challenges within the container shipping industry. By serving as a bridge between diverse perspectives and expertise, ONE aims to collaborate with stakeholders to enhance supply chain efficiency and contribute meaningfully to society.
The Container Shipping Summit, initiated by Ocean Network Express, aims to address pressing challenges facing the container shipping industry. The event brings together industry experts and academic leaders to work towards a brighter future for global supply chains and communities.These summits have already facilitated joint research programs and expansion of internship opportunities at universities.