To mark the 20th National Maritime Day, China unveiled a new proposal on Friday advocating for a shift toward greener, smarter, and more open maritime shipping. The initiative reflects the country’s growing emphasis on sustainable development within the maritime sector.
According to the Ministry of Transport, China, as the world’s top goods trader and second-largest economy, relies on sea routes for about 95 percent of its trade. With global connectivity, it ranks first in port handling capacity, fleet strength, shipbuilding output, and overall marine industry scale. In 2024, China’s marine economy crossed 10 trillion yuan (approximately $1.4 trillion) for the first time.
To support the green transformation of the maritime sector, China aims to boost low-carbon shipping by developing eco-friendly ports, vessels, and shipping lanes. The proposal emphasizes building a clean, safe, and efficient energy infrastructure by expanding the use of clean energy and enhancing marine ecological protection.
Recent milestones in green shipping underscore this commitment. In July, China’s largest PV-LNG dual-fuel car carrier, Yuan Hai Kou, completed its first voyage to Greece. It produces 410,000 kWh of solar energy annually, reducing carbon emissions by nearly 346 tonnes and conserving 111 tonnes of fuel. Similarly, on June 28, the Anhui, the world’s first pure ammonia-powered vessel, successfully completed its initial voyage with near-zero carbon dioxide emissions.
Earlier in June, China launched its first domestically built 16,000 TEU methanol dual-fuel container ship, COSCO SHIPPING Yangpu. This vessel can switch fuels based on route demands, lowering carbon emissions by approximately 120,000 tonnes yearly—the equivalent of planting 6.7 million trees.
By the end of 2024, China had developed a substantial fleet of eco-friendly ships, including over 600 powered by LNG, 485 electric vessels, and several others utilizing methanol and hydrogen fuels, according to the transport ministry.
China also advocates for self-reliance in maritime science and technology, pushing for advancements in core areas such as smart shipbuilding and intelligent maritime systems.
The proposal calls for accelerating digitalization and adopting technologies like artificial intelligence to drive integrated development of smart ports, intelligent vessels, digital navigation, and modern regulatory systems. China has already established 23 automated container terminals and 29 automated dry bulk terminals, equipped with 5G-enabled autonomous trucks and remote-controlled cranes.
Furthermore, China reaffirmed its dedication to openness and global collaboration in maritime governance. It encouraged technological cooperation, stronger IP protection, and global cultural and talent exchange to promote innovation and inclusivity in the maritime industry.
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