Our task is to keep pace with the latest technologies application and introduction in domestic shipping. Otherwise, Russia may lose competition in the international shipping market. This was stated by the President of the Russian Chamber of Shipping, Alexei Klyavin at the 2nd LNG Fleet and LNG Bunkering in Russia Conference organized and hosted by the PortNews IAA.
Experts say that there are about 10 billion tonnes of freight transported globally with 85-90% of international trade goods being delivered by sea transport.
“Our partners and colleagues from other countries are making a lot of efforts to have at least a small part of this sea freight. Despite the difficult situation, we also need to focus on this work,” Alexey Klyavin was quoted as saying at the conference.
The President of the Russian Chamber of Shipping offered to focus on several issues that impact the development of domestic and global shipping. First of all, it is protectionism measures of some countries in the field of trade, technology, finance, which directly affects shipping sector.
Alexei Klyavin believes the development of digital technologies that are penetrating nearly all spheres of life and business also reshapes the shipping industry. They digital solutions have become more important for shipping.
Currently, significant changes in maritime traffic are occurring due to the stringent international environmental requirements for marine fuel.
“The market sees an excess of tonnage, which, in turn, affects the level of marine freight rates, which today settled at a record low. This forces shipping companies to think about how to get out of this situation and contributes to tougher competition in the global market,” says Alexey Klyavin. “In the current political and economic environment, the tightening of the environmental requirements of global shipping has undoubtedly become an instrument of competition.”
He recalled that the world community today focuses on revolutionary CO2 emissions reduction. The International Maritime Organization also is set to cut CO2 emissions by 40% by 2030. It was decided at the international level to reduce SOx and NOx emissions from shipping sector. In particular, the 0.5% sulfur cap will come into force for global shipping as from 2020 and NOx emission control zones (NECA) in the Baltic and North Seas will come into force from 2021.
“Under such conditions and requirements, the shift to LNG fuel for ships will become a real alternative to conventional fuels, diesel and fuel oil. In my opinion, the use of new technologies in shipping, aimed at using LNG as marine fuel, will contribute to the development and improvement of technologies in shipping, shipbuilding and the Russian gas industry,” Alexey Klyavin said.