The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has welcomed the China Shipowners’ Association (CSA) as a full member as of 1 January 2023. The CSA will join the ICS Board, which oversees the policy positions ICS presents on behalf of shopowners with global regulators.
Given the importance of China as a major shipping nation, the membership of CSA confirms the legitimacy of ICS, through its structure comprising member national (and regional) shipowner associations to speak on behalf of the global industry, says the organisation.
Established in 1993, the CSA is a voluntary trade organisation whose members are owners, operators and managers of merchant ships registered in the People’s Republic of China. The CSA assists Chinese Government agencies to regulate and maintain fair competition, and reflect the views of its membership.
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‘I am delighted to welcome the China Shipowners’ Association to full ICS membership,’ says Emanuele Grimaldi, Chair of International Chamber of Shipping. ‘As a hub for global shipping China plays a major role in maritime transport, including an influential role on the international stage. This membership will strengthen our ability to work together, united as an industry, to tackle the most pressing issues facing shipping. such as decarbonisation.’
Zhang Shouguo, Executive Vice-President of China Shipowners’ Association, adds: ‘CSA’s participation in the ICS will provide Chinese shipowners with a stepping stone, who can contribute to globalisation by constructing a safe supply chain and making the Chinese shipping industry heard. Chinese shipowners will grow together with other international maritime companies. CSA also hopes to make use of the ICS information platform to provide more assistance to the Chinese shipping industry, and also the necessary support for the transition to low-carbon green shipping.’
Picture: Zhang Shouguo, Executive Vice-President of China Shipowners’ Association.
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