MOMAF approves the registration of Foreign Shipowners Association

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries has officially approved the registration of the Association of Foreign Shipowners Representatives in Korea (AFSRK) as a non-profit organization. The approval demonstrated that the Korean government has truly embraced closer cooperative relations with international shipping companies to work together to foster a high value-added marine industry in Korea as well as developing Korean ports into the logistic hub for Northeast Asia.

AFSRK, comprises 26 international shipping companies as active members, including 9 representatives from the world's top 10 container carriers, major car carriers, such as EUKOR, Wallenius, and Eastern Car Liner, plus famous tanker, chemical and bulk carriers companies. The comprehensive composition of the association's membership, has greatly enhanced the ability and credibility of AFSRK within the local community and has expanded its breadth to for international relationships and status.

“Our Association's core purpose is to play an active role by providing a platform, in collaboration with the Korean government to create value for true globalization and advance the general shipping environment in Korea”, said Thomas Engel, President of Hapag-Lloyd (Korea), Ltd, who is Chairman of the Board. The other board members are Peter Li of OOCL, S W Lee of APL and Capt. Shafiei Karaji of IRISL.

“We sincerely appreciate the excellent professional approach of MOMAF and their approval. We are confident and optimistic on the outlook of our association’s future working relationship with the government, free trade zones, logistic parks, port authorities, unions and the general public to ensure that Korea becomes the Hub for Northeast Asia for the shipping business - with world-class standards and an internationally competitive and consistent fiscal and policy environment for good investment.” added Mr. Engel. <Korea Shipping Gazette>