Angad Banga identifies Hong Kong’s maritime needs

The local shipowner association in Hong Kong has been in regular dialogue with government to foster better maritime conditions. The latest installment from our brand new magazine being distributed across Hong Kong Maritime Week.

Angad Banga is mid-way through a two-year tenure as chairman of the Hong Kong Shipowners Association (HKSOA), at which point he will likely hand over the reins to his deputy, Richard Hext.

Banga, the chief operating officer at the Caravel Group, has been brilliant at expounding on the city’s maritime strengths over the past year, while also advising government on how best to make the Special Administrative Region more competitive and in tune to the current and upcoming maritime needs of the global shipping community.

“Hong Kong’s competitive edge in the shipping industry is founded on three core strengths: integrated services, global connectivity, and robust public-private partnerships that drive growth and innovation,” Banga tells Splash.

As global trade dynamics evolve, Banga argues that Hong Kong’s emphasis on enhancing connectivity and leveraging its deep pool of expertise becomes increasingly critical, reinforcing its status as a global maritime leader.

Industry advancement will rely, he says, on effective collaboration between the government and private sector.

The Hong Kong government’s Action Plan on Maritime and Port Development Strategy is a testament to this partnership, he says, aiming to revitalise, diversify, and future-proof the industry.

Hong Kong is well-positioned to maintain its competitive edge in the global maritime arena

“This comprehensive strategy underscores the city’s commitment to investing in green technologies and sustainable practices, ensuring that environmental considerations are at the forefront of industry advancements,” Banga explains.

Moreover, the plan includes initiatives to upskill the workforce through targeted education and training programs, fostering a new generation of maritime professionals equipped to tackle future challenges.

“By nurturing talent and encouraging innovation, Hong Kong is well-positioned to maintain its competitive edge in the global maritime arena,” Banga maintains.

Hext, the HKSOA deputy chair, chimes in with concluding remarks, telling Splash: “The government realises the urgency of implementing the many initiatives outlined in that action plan as quickly as possible, because timely implementation is always key to maintaining Hong Kong’s edge and capitalising on the emerging opportunities in our rapidly changing world.”

This magazine is being distributed across Hong Kong Maritime Week. Splash readers can access the full magazine for free online by clicking here.