There was no shortage of Canadian shipping professionals ready to welcome the arrival of Singapore-headquartered China Navigation Co (CNCo) as it opened its office in Vancouver earlier this month.
Bruce Ralston, minister of jobs, trade and technology for the Province of British Columbia, was one of the first visitors to the new premises, touted as CNCo’s biggest branch in North America.
“The province recognises the significant contribution that China Navigation Co makes to the shipping industry worldwide,” Ralston said, as he unveiled a plaque to mark the occasion in the company’s office.
Team spirit
CNCo’s team of 14 managers, who oversee dry bulk and liner businesses in the company’s Swire Bulk and Swire Shipping divisions, was on hand to welcome guests from the nearby port, shipping and commodities sectors. Some guests even arrived at the office’s waterfront location by boat.
Often rated as one of the best places to live, Vancouver is making a big push to rise up through the ranks of the world’s major shipping hubs, through the efforts of the Vancouver International Maritime Centre.
Several large shipowners and operators call Vancouver home, including Seaspan Corp, Teekay Shipping and Waterfront Shipping.
