The modern services sector within the industry plays a crucial role in enhancing the country's maritime power. CGTN's Zhang Zhenni examines how China is promoting high-quality development in this area.
ZHANG ZHENNI, Shanghai: "New energy vehicles, lithium batteries, and solar cells, referred to as the 'three new things' in China's foreign trade, were previously classified as hazardous goods requiring extensive Customs declaration paperwork for waterway transport. Now, upon arrival at Shanghai Port, these goods only require a single declaration, allowing for swift clearance."
This streamlined single declaration system utilizes cross-domain data sharing with other ports, enabling Shanghai Port to cut declaration times by at least 48 hours and significantly lower costs for businesses.
XU ZHENZHONG, Deputy Chief of Logistics Monitoring Section Five, Yangshan Customs: "From January to July this year, Yangshan Customs supervised 140,000 new energy vehicles, marking a 3% year-on-year increase. We’ve implemented a 'Customs and Enterprise Contact Person' system to enhance communication with wharves, shipping agents, and automobile enterprises, facilitating smoother trade."
Thanks to a series of supportive policies, Shanghai Port has maintained its position as the world's top container port for 14 consecutive years.
ZHAO NAN, Deputy Secretary General, Shanghai International Shipping Institute: "We leverage technology to empower the industry, including an integrated data platform that visualizes the entire logistics process. Additionally, Shanghai actively participates in the shipping industry's decarbonization efforts."
China's shipping sector has flourished in recent years, with approximately 95% of foreign trade transportation handled by maritime services. Jan Bremer, Managing Director of the world's largest ship management group in China, highlights the significant potential of China's shipping industry.
JAN BREMER, Managing Director, V.Group China Office: "We chose to operate in China due to its enormous potential. The Chinese shipping industry has developed rapidly, surpassing Japan and Korea in leadership. China is now the world's top country in shipbuilding and tonnage, and it is poised for further growth."
China holds 20 positions on the latest list of the world's top 100 container ports released by the United States. With ongoing advancements in shipping transactions, information consultancy, finance, insurance, and maritime arbitration, the country continues to strengthen its modern shipping services for high-quality development. Zhang Zhenni, CGTN, Shanghai.