Zhejiang launches 1st intl vessel under Ningbo-Zhoushan Port flag

A photo of New Mingzhou 18. [Photo/Ningbo Maritime Safety Administration]

The first international vessel under the Ningbo-Zhoushan Port flag, New Mingzhou 18, was registered by the Zhejiang Maritime Safety Administration, which implements the international ship registration policy in the China (Zhejiang) Pilot Free Trade Zone.

This development supports Zhejiang's goal of becoming a global hub for shipping and logistics.

The new policy is important for developing an international maritime service system for the construction of a bulk commodity resource allocation hub. It introduces greater openness in areas such as foreign equity ratios and ship inspection procedures.

Its registration process also makes the pilot free trade zone a more attractive destination for ship operators and investors. The initiative is expected to spur growth in ship transactions, maritime finance, and shipping insurance.

To implement the policy efficiently, the administration has launched an approach to provide a dedicated service window and offers one-on-one guidance throughout the registration process. This approach enables cross-departmental and one-stop processing and doesn't require in-person visits from confirmation and verification to mailing.

According to the Zhejiang Maritime Safety Administration, all vessels registered internationally in the pilot free trade zone will be assigned to the port of registry Ningbo-Zhoushan Port, with the Ningbo municipal administration of maritime safety designated as the sole registration authority.

Zhejiang will continue refining its maritime services to support the pilot free trade zone's role as a global hub for maritime services and bulk commodity resource allocation.