Dear Friends,

Containerisation has been one of the most revolutionary innovations in the history of the global shipping industry. It has not only improved transport efficiency, but it has also changed the paradigm of the supply chain. It has greatly facilitated long-distance trade, making globalisation a reality.

Thirty years ago, China opened its doors to the world, and international buyers discovered they had a new choice for more cost-effective sourcing. The golden era of China's port industry had begun. I consider myself fortunate to have witnessed this miraculous growth of China's container port industry.

In 15 years, Yantian International Container Terminals (YICT), a member of the Hutchison Port Holdings (HPH) Group, has developed into one of the most innovative and technologically advanced container handling facilities in the world. Today, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you who had helped transform Yantian, from a small fishing village, into one of the world's most important maritime hubs.

The current financial turbulence is impacting every spectrum of the global economy, including international trading patterns. Thus, we must embrace each change as it occurs, with every ounce of creativity and flexibility within us and work as a cohesive team, taking a proactive attitude towards change and the challenges it brings.

Southern China is still one of the most dynamic regions in the global economy, and the port sector is one of the key drivers of economic growth and a gateway for exchange and communication, and will remain robust for the foreseeable future.

Hai Chi Yuet
Managing Director of YICT
March 2009