The Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) in Germany and the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority in Canada have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate across a range of port priorities, including decarbonization, safety, and cruise operations.
The MOU, signed November 7, 2024, will see the two port authorities increase cooperation in key areas such as maritime decarbonization, safety, digital practices and new technology, and cruise operations. Work under the MOU will include assessing readiness to support alternative fuel bunkering, improving safety with new technology like drones, using predictive analytics to optimize operations, establishing data governance and cybersecurity best practices, and exploring opportunities for sustainable cruise port accreditation.
The two port authorities will also create opportunities for employees to gain practical experience with the daily challenges and practices at the partner port. Both ports are major gateways for their respective countries:
- The Port of Hamburg is the largest seaport in Germany and the third-largest in Europe. It is also Europe’s largest rail port and a global leader in hinterland rail connections. Additionally, it is the largest industrial area in northern Europe, bearing significant responsibility for the people who work there and the environment.
- The Port of Vancouver is Canada’s largest and North America’s most diversified port. Its 29 major terminals and over 1,000 tenants facilitate about $300 billion in trade annually across four sectors—auto, bulk, break-bulk, and container—and support cruise operations.
I am delighted to have signed this agreement with the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority. This further expands our network of partners who want to work with us on the decarbonization of maritime transport. In addition, Vancouver is a valuable sparring partner for us in the exchange on efficient cruise handling within the city.
… said Jens Meier, CEO of the HPA.
Peter Xotta, President and CEO of the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, expressed enthusiasm about the Port of Vancouver’s role as a key trade hub for Canadians and their businesses. He noted their excitement about partnering with the Port of Hamburg on initiatives aimed at improving operations, sustainability, and safety at both ports.
To remind, in late September,the Hamburg Port Authority (HPA), the Busan Port Authority (BPA), and the Ulsan Port Authority (UPA) signed a joint declaration of intent to collaborate on decarbonizing maritime transport and on emissions reduction programs in ports, as well as on infrastructure improvements.
