With the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal came into operation, not only Hong Kong’s cruise industry has entered a new era, but also a new page of the local shipping industry has been turned. Dr Yip Tsz-leung, Assistant Professor of PolyU’s Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies and Associate Director of C.Y. Tung International Centre for Maritime Studies, was earlier interviewed by the Capital and discussed the development and outlook of manpower demand in maritime-related industries. In this issue, Dr Yip’s opinion is followed up.

How does the new development of the cruise industry drive the demand for shipping talents?

Different staff are responsible for different types of work in a cruise ship. They are mainly divided into technical staff and management personnel, including deck and engine staff, electricians, sailors as well as dining, entertainment, housekeeping and engineering personnel. In the case that Hong Kong is a cruise home port, ship repair and maintenance services will also be involved. As such, there will be a high demand for technical staff. In the coming one or two years, new ships will be built around the world and it is expected that the demand for industry talents will continue for a period of time.

What are the competitive advantages of Hong Kong’s shipping and transport logistics industry?

Nowadays, the shipping and transport logistics industries in Hong Kong are developing high-end services, involving trade finance, shipping finance, insurance and legal proceedings. In the Chinese mainland, port throughput volume is high and foreign exchange controls have been implemented. Therefore, finance-related work arrangement can more conveniently be done in Hong Kong. In addition, Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland implement two different sets of rule of law. It is easier for Hong Kong to converge with international maritime industry in dealing with jobs involving legal provisions.

What are the employment opportunities for graduates in the transport logistics and shipping sectors?

Graduates can join the maritime industry, including ship companies (such as route planning), terminals, and logistics (such as warehouse management), shipping management (such as container leasing), port services (such as ship agent, fuel and food supply, repairs and maintenance) and marine insurance (ship insurance and compensation).

What are the distinctive features of PolyU’s logistics and maritime studies programmes?

The programmes offered by PolyU’s Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies are globally applicable and have become reference models for the international maritime industry. The programmes provide a comprehensive education of the knowledge and skills in international maritime and transport logistics management to broaden students’ know-how in shipping, logistics, transport and trade. The programmes are flexibly designed and graduates enjoy bright career prospects.