Eastport Maritime’s annual get-together in Singapore has become so popular that it now requires two venues to accommodate everybody who wants to attend.
The homegrown shipbroking and consultancy firm says the event draws over 300 people from some of the biggest names in the industry, including representatives from more than 80 charterers and owners combined.
Among those present were representatives from Eastern Pacific Shipping, Odfjell, Stolt-Nielsen group, Ardmore Shipping, Pertamina, Torm, Dow, ExxonMobil and Shell, among others.
“It started 20 years ago, but it was much smaller then,” Eastport Maritime managing director Ragnar Berg told TradeWinds.
“During Lunar New Year in Singapore, there is a special tradition of Lohei lunches and dinners. It’s a fun tradition and the food is very tasty.
“But after seven or more of these meals, you feel the urge to eat something different, and I particularly sensed that among my Western friends in the shipping community.
“So, they were happy when I suggested we meet on the last Friday of the Lunar New Year to indulge in pizza and sausages at a microbrewery in Singapore.”
Berg said the event started with a modest gathering of 10 people, which expanded to 25 the following year. “As such, it became a tradition for Eastport Maritime to host this event every year on the last Friday of the Lunar New Year.”
Berg added that there are larger formal settings organised in Singapore, but as far as informal gatherings go, he believes this must be one of the largest.
“But what is most special here is the diversity you have among the guests and a good representation across the industry by major operators, producers and charterers from various sectors such as chemical, vegetable oils, biofuels, and gas, all in one place.
“Not only is it a great opportunity for Eastport to express our appreciation for the continued support we receive from the industry, but it is also a terrific opportunity to meet so many key people in one informal setting.
“This wide representation also showcases how successful Singapore has been in growing its maritime industry through various measures and incentive programmes over the last couple of decades to become a vibrant and leading shipping hub in Asia,” he added.
