Seldom mentioned, but nonetheless addressed, it is clear that the Hong Kong trade market along with markets around the world are not letting the current trade war between China and the U.S. hinder  the opportunities for trade growth and success.  Day 2 of the annual Asian Logistics and Maritime Conference hit the ground running, proving that nothing stands in the way for the continuation of global trade success, with or without the imposed tariffs. It goes without saying the trade war is a concern, but is nowhere close to stopping leading initiatives. 

“This is the thing that keep us awake at night,” Alexander Tarini, Vice President of Logistics for Olymel said in response to the current trade war. The potential impact the imposed tariffs could place on business efforts and trade success continues to saturate news channels and conversations at the mention of the global economy. Leaders encouraged others to focus on riding the waves of change, keep the customer first and utilize the uncertainty as a way to implement flexibility into operations.

“Hong Kong continues to be a key trading and logistics hub linking the mainland, Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
members and global markets through its excellent regional and global sea and air links,” according to a release highlighting the conference themes from HKTDC.

While some industry leaders expressed almost no concern over the current trade war, many provided step-by-step strategies to maintain control over the numbers, supply chain, customer relations as a means to gain peace of mind and ensure business keeps moving.

President of President, Asia Pacific Division, FedEx Express Karen Reddington urged the importance of connectivity as a key to growth success and added that, “Asia is a strong, resilient trading bloc in a globalized world, and connectivity is the key to global growth… we must keep connecting and integrating to maintain the momentum.”

The confidence of the Hong Kong market is what keeps is moving, according to Reddington and as the conversation of its future as a logistics hub, there is no question the strong infrastructure and regulatory systems already in place will determine its success.

Source: HKTDC