In a concerted effort to make the SAR an international logistics hub, the Government plans to draw up a master plan for Hong Kong's future transport and logistics development.
According to Port Maritime Board Secretary, Alex Fong, the results from three current studies will be integrated in the plan. 'We want to create a multi- modal transport platform for Hong Kong,' he said.
The first consultancy study to be included in the plan addresses connectivity and focuses on value-added activities, Mr Fong said, adding that the study would be complete in the second half of the year.
'It looks at how to enhance the port and inland distribution resources,' he said. Other issues like maximum use of IT and simplifying customer requirements will also be addressed.
In addition to this study, the master plan will incorporate the Port Development Strategy Review - an update of the previous Port and Airport Development Strategy (Pads) study - which is now being carried out following the recent completion of the port cargo forecasts.
The study will look at the supply side of the equation and decide what needs to be done for future port planning.