With over 80% of global trade transported by sea, the shipping industry is essential to international logistics. To ensure that Hong Kong remains a key player in this sector, scholars from PolyU conducted a comprehensive study of the city’s shipping ecosystem. The team also developed policy recommendations to foster collaboration within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), supporting the long-term initiatives outlined in the Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address.

The project, titled “Policy Recommendations on Uplifting Hong Kong’s Status as an International Shipping Centre through Development Opportunities in the Greater Bay Area,” recently received over HK$2 million in funding from the Strategic Public Policy Research Funding Scheme (SPPRFS) for 2024/25. Administered by the HKSAR Government’s Chief Executive Policy Unit, the scheme allows the administration to tap into the city’s public policy research expertise. Significantly, out of 37 applications submitted this year, the PolyU project was one of only two initiatives selected for funding.

Led by Professor Mike Lai Kee-hung, Chair Professor of Shipping and Logistics at PolyU, the project takes an innovative ecosystem perspective, analysing the components, development trends, industry interactions, and the ability of Hong Kong’s shipping industry to adapt to external changes. The research integrates insights from shipping economics, policy studies, and regional development. It combines quantitative analysis with qualitative case studies, industry surveys, and expert interviews to provide substantial policy recommendations aimed at enhancing Hong Kong’s competitive edge in the global maritime landscape.

“By fostering collaboration with GBA stakeholders and focusing on core areas such as sustainability and technology adoption, we expect the research outcomes to positively impact Hong Kong’s economy and society while also offering valuable insights for other shipping hubs,” said Professor Lai.