The Incheon Port Authority (IPA) actively promoted Incheon Port at the 35th International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) World Ports Conference held in Hamburg, Germany from Oct. 7-9, the agency announced on Oct. 13. Led by President Lee Kyung-kyu, the delegation aimed to enhance Incheon Port’s global presence and explore new opportunities for collaboration and innovation in the port industry.
The IAPH, established in 1955, is the world’s largest international organization of port managers, with over 270 ports and port-related agencies as members. It serves as an official advisory body for five UN specialized agencies and one intergovernmental organization in the port sector. The conference provided a platform for port authorities and industry leaders to discuss trends, challenges, and innovations in the maritime sector.
On Oct. 9, Lee visited the headquarters of Hapag-Lloyd, the world’s fifth-largest shipping company, located in Hamburg. This visit was part of the IPA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships with major global shipping companies and promote Incheon Port’s capabilities.
The delegation also conducted benchmarking on major port facilities and port redevelopment areas in Germany. They visited the EUROGATE container terminal at Hamburg Port to observe the automation systems and digitalized port operations, which are considered among the most advanced in Europe. Additionally, they visited HafenCity in Hamburg to benchmark urban regeneration and port redevelopment areas, drawing insights for similar projects at Incheon Port.
On Oct. 11, the delegation visited the French port of HAROPA and had a meeting with Vice President for Development Chris Danaraju. HAROPA, France’s largest port, has maintained a sister port relationship with Incheon Port since 1977. During the visit, they inspected HAROPA’s lock facilities and discussed ways to strengthen technical cooperation in the future. Both sides agreed to pursue the re-signing of the sister port MOU in Incheon next year.
Lee expressed the significance of attending the IAPH World Ports Conference, stating, “Attending the conference was a great opportunity to discuss and find solutions to various issues surrounding ports with many port representatives worldwide.” He added, “Through port sales in Europe, we were also able to actively market Incheon Port’s new logistics environment, such as the Incheon New Port Phase 1-2 container terminal.”
The Incheon Port Authority’s participation in the IAPH conference and subsequent visits to key port facilities in Germany and France underscore its commitment to enhancing Incheon Port’s global competitiveness. By leveraging insights from leading ports and fostering international collaborations, the IPA aims to position Incheon Port as a premier logistics hub in Northeast Asia.
As the delegation returns to South Korea, the focus will be on implementing the knowledge gained from the benchmarking activities and strengthening the sister port relationship with HAROPA. The re-signing of the sister port MOU next year is expected to further solidify the partnership and pave the way for enhanced technical cooperation and mutual development.
Incheon Port’s new logistics environment, highlighted by the Incheon New Port Phase 1-2 container terminal, represents a significant upgrade in its capabilities. The IPA’s efforts to market these advancements at international forums like the IAPH World Ports Conference are crucial for attracting new business and fostering sustainable growth in the global logistics environment.
Source: Business Korea