Sea Asia 2015 set to attract over 14,000 visitors from 60 countriesSea Asia 2015 set to attract over 14,000 visitors from 60 countries

Singapore Maritime Foundation (SMF) chairman Michael Chia said this year’s Sea Asia is also an opportunity to recognise Singapore’s position as an international maritime centre.

“2015 is a big year with Singapore celebrating its 50^th anniversary – a key milestone and opportunity to reflect on the sectors which have helped Singapore become what it is today.

“The maritime industry – which employs some 170,000 people in Singapore and contributes around 7% of Singapore’s GDP – has played a key role in driving Singapore’s development and this trend is set to continue,” he said.

Guest of honour for Sea Asia 2015 will be Singapore’s Minister for Transport, Lui Tuck Yew.

“Mr Lui’s presence at Sea Asia 2015 is testament to the Government’s recognition of the significant role the maritime industry plays in Singapore’s continuing growth and development. It also shows the Government’s commitment and support to sustain our position as one of the world’s leading International Maritime Centres,” Chia said.    

The high level conference at Sea Asia will discuss the new realities facing the industry such as falling oil prices, an unstable Eurozone and the emergence of new cargo generators such as Africa.

“These developments provide opportunities and challenges for the sector. Falling oil prices, for example, provide real opportunities for the shipping industry to reduce operating costs while creating challenges for the oil and gas industry,” said Chris Hayman chairman of Seatrade.

“Sea Asia 2015 is a critical opportunity for the global maritime and offshore communities to congregate in Singapore and share insightful perspectives on these issues affecting the various industry segments,”

One of the key highlights of the event is the Sea Asia Global Forum which will see Christian Clausen, president and group ceo, Nordea Bank; Khalid Hashim, managing director, Precious Shipping; Tom Boardley, marine director, Lloyd’s Register and vice president, UK Chamber of Shipping; Andreas Sohmen-Pao, chairman, BW Group; and SS Teo, managing director, Pacific International Lines discuss trends and issues impacting the maritime industry.  

Sea Asia 2015 will also feature the Offshore Marine Forum which brings industry experts together to debate the challenges and opportunities facing the region’s offshore marine sector against a backdrop of record revenues, orders and complex operating environments.

This year marks the fifth edition of Sea Asia which is co-organised by Seatrade and SMF. It will be held at Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre from 21 – 23 April as part of Singapore Maritime Week.