Even when threatened with the accelerating demise of its port, Hong Kong’s massively unpopular and increasingly schizophrenic government cannot free itself from an obsessive need to achieve consensus. As the ridiculous notion of building a 10th container terminal was again raised this week (although it was from a consultant saying it would never work), terminal operators pointed out that increasing back-up land for storing containers could add 15 percent to the port capacity. Importantly, it would speed up ship and barge turnaround times, crucial considering the port is now largely a transhipment facility having long ago lost market share of South Chinas direct export containers to Shenzhen. What it will require is rezoning the land in the port area, something that will push smaller truck operators and container storage yards out of business. But instead of seeing this a key part of improving Hong Kongs competitiveness at a time when the port is losing relevance, the bold and determined Transport and Housing Bureau says it will take some time to balance the interests of all stakeholders involved. In other mealy-mouthed words, “achieve consensus”.
Posted on: Tue, 03 Dec 2013 02:37:26 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015