China has been driving the international shipping industry to new highs in recent times and that, in essence, is because China’s economy is growing on the back of rising consumer demand for a better lifestyle. The government cannot match that demand without ships, and it is backing investment in the yards that will deliver the goods.
Significant developments pointing to China’s growth include: the successful series construction of the country’s first VLCCs, more export orders of higher value ships, plans announced for the largest shipyard in the world and a growing realisation around the world that Chinese yards build quality ships at competitive prices. You can read more about the developments in our Around the Globe article starting on page 6.
However as Chinese ambition chases more orders, many yards are under pressure to meet their production deadlines. In an effort to meet the increasing workload and better serve the growing market, DNV is undertaking an expansion in the recruitment of surveyors. More than 30 new surveyors are likely to be taken on over the next two years. DNV will also train more local managers to provide more dedicated customer service management.
Further, we recently initiated a new freshman programme that will also add another eight new trainees by the end of this year. Our maritime service centre in Shanghai plays an integral part in quick approval services, supporting the industry on various technical issues, and we are now providing further educational support through our training academies in the region.
In short, we are adapting our approach and services to meet the industry’s needs. There is enormous potential in China, and we will continue to strengthen our work force competence and services accordingly, because China is driving much of the shipping industry and will continue to do so in the foreseeable future.
Date: 2005-12-21