New system cuts registration costs

The Hong Kong shipping register has become more competitive following the introduction of a new quality-control system, according to a marine official.

Marine department principal surveyor Chick King-fai said it was now slightly cheaper to register a ship in Hong Kong than in Panama or Liberia.

The flag state quality control (FSQC) system, introduced in April last year, cut costs by reducing the need for inspections, he said.

In the past, shipowners had to bear the cost of a mandatory vessel inspection on joining the register and thereafter at five-yearly intervals.

'[Under the new system] our professional officers are deployed to inspect or audit those ships or companies where quality is found to be declining,' Mr Chick said.

Marine officers were no longer required to carry out comprehensive surveys of ships in relation to load-lines, safety constructions, safety and radio equipment and pollution prevention.