Feng Boming Chairs CMPort's 2023 Interim Results Press Conference
On August 30, China Merchants Port Holdings Co., Ltd. (“CMPort”, Hong Kong Stock Exchange Code: 00144) held its 2023 Interim Results Press Conference in Hong Kong. The conference was chaired by Feng Boming, Deputy General Manager of China Merchants Group and Chairman of CMPort's Board of Directors.
In the first half of the year, CMPort's container and bulk cargo throughput remained stable with sustained growth. Its investment in the research and development of digital systems and technologies increased as it continued to set new benchmarks for building smart ports. The number of contracted enterprises in its overseas parks also rose steadily. CMPort's port business completed total container throughput of 66.5 million TEUs, up 0.3% year-on-year. Asset conditions remained stable, with total assets at HK$172.9 billion, up 0.4% from the end of last year. Interest-bearing debts decreased by 4.8% year-on-year, and the net gearing ratio was 20.7%, maintaining a healthy level.
Feng Boming pointed out that in the first half of the year, CMPort adopted a general tone of "seeking progress while maintaining stability" and actively responded to the challenges of weak global economic recovery and shrinking demand. It continued to focus on "endogenous growth" and "innovation and upgrade". Amidst the complex economic and trade environment, it seized opportunities with its container and bulk cargo business achieving stable growth. The company also increased its market share in the main regions where it operates. CMPort made good progress in homebase port construction, technological innovation, market expansion, operations management, reform enhancement, integrated development, ESG and other aspects, laying a solid foundation for high-quality development.
Subsequently, Feng Boming, together with Managing Director Lu Yongxin, Chief Financial Officer Tu Xiaoping, and Deputy General Manager Li Yubin, answered questions raised by reporters.
As the new Chairman of the Board of CMPort, Feng Boming said the new Board of Directors will inherit and carry forward the good practices of the previous Board. Based on market changes and the company's development strategy, it will continue to optimize operational strategies, give full play to professional capabilities, and work diligently and conscientiously to add momentum to the company's development and create value for shareholders.
When answering the question "CMPort has been rooted in Hong Kong for 30 years, how do you view the future development trends of Hong Kong's ports?", Feng Boming said, "We remain confident in the future development of Hong Kong's ports. Hong Kong is a free port and a very important international hub. It is also a global financial center with unparalleled capabilities in connecting the world. In the future, the company will actively participate in the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and help Hong Kong to better integrate into the overall national development blueprint."
Reporters at the scene also raised questions and exchanged ideas on topics such as business outlook and digitalization.