International maritime services giant is bumping up its manpower in and around regional ports
Norwegian company Barwil Unitor Ships Service has its sights firmly set on the mainland to expand its presence in the region.
A merger in 2005 between Barwil and Unitor has resulted in the world's biggest maritime services network.
Bard Bjorlow, Barwil Unitor's regional vice-president, said the merger of two companies that offered complementary services and shared a common customer base meant that clients now received an even better service.
Under the motto 'Global capability, local expertise', Barwil Unitor focuses on vessel operating efficiency for the growth and safety of the region's shipping industry.
Mr Bjorlow said the company grew 40 per cent in China last year. The mainland represented the company's biggest growth area. This growth was fuelled by an expanding market and increased investment in offices, people and services.