On December 13, 2024, the Xiangshan County Water Transport Association Maintenance Association (referred to as the “Xiangshan Machinery Association”) hosted its Annual Exchange Meeting and the “New Quality Power, Green Aviation Future” Theme Forum in Xiangshan, Ningbo. The event attracted over 200 industry elites from across the country, including representatives from maintenance and marine equipment enterprises, China Classification Society (CCS) experts, and university scholars. Together, they engaged in robust discussions on technological innovation and sustainable development in the shipping and marine machinery industries.

A Showcase of Expertise and Vision

Representing GMCG/INTLREG as both a sponsor and speaker, Viktor Xu delivered a compelling presentation titled “Introduction of GMCG/INTLREG & Procedures for Domestic Vessel Transition to International Trade.” The speech was highly praised by shipping owners and participants, cementing GMCG/INTLREG’s reputation as a leader in maritime expertise and innovation. Viktor’s address provided critical insights into facilitating the smooth transition of vessels from domestic to international operations, a topic of significant importance in the evolving maritime landscape.

Expanding Influence and Building Connections

The forum welcomed over 220 guests, creating an unparalleled networking platform. Viktor Xu engaged with numerous shipping owner representatives, fostering valuable connections that greatly enhanced GMCG/INTLREG’s influence within the industry. This engagement underscored the organization’s commitment to driving collaboration and sharing knowledge to support the global maritime community.

A Forum for Innovation and Sustainability

The event featured in-depth technical discussions on:

• Emerging intelligent technologies in maritime operations

• Green energy-saving solutions

• Updates on international specifications and technologies

• Trends in global ship management

• Opportunities and challenges in maritime services

Such discussions highlighted the industry’s dedication to achieving sustainable growth and adapting to new technological advancements.

Xiangshan: A Maritime Powerhouse

Xiangshan County, known for its strategic coastal location, has established itself as a prominent hub for the shipping industry in Zhejiang Province. Over the years, it has developed a robust marine transportation industrial cluster and gained recognition as a strong maritime county. The success of this year’s forum reflects Xiangshan’s growing influence and commitment to fostering innovation in the maritime sector.

The Xiangshan Machinery Association, founded on July 20, 2021, plays a pivotal role in this ecosystem. With 29 shipping enterprise members, it serves as a vital platform for collaboration and advancement within the industry. The association’s focus on maintenance management—encompassing crew training, ship technology, materials, and inspection—is essential to the operational success of shipping enterprises.

Driving Maritime Excellence

The Annual Exchange Meeting not only injected new vitality into the water transport industry but also provided a unique platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing. By addressing critical industry topics and fostering connections between stakeholders, the forum set the stage for innovative solutions and sustainable practices in maritime operations.

Looking Ahead

GMCG/INTLREG’s active participation and sponsorship of the Xiangshan Forum underscore the organization’s dedication to shaping the future of the maritime industry. Through initiatives like these, GMCG/INTLREG continues to lead the way in delivering expertise, driving innovation, and supporting the sustainable growth of global shipping.