Container port operator Hongkong International Terminals Limited (HIT) successfully established an Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) link connecting its billing system with the payment processing system of Evergreen Star Hong Kong Limited, the local agent of Evergreen Marine Corporation (Taiwan) Limited (EGL). The EDI link will enable EGL to reduce costs and increase efficiency, as invoices and detailed transaction records will be sent directly to EGL's computer system.

Mr Eric Ip, Managing Director of HIT, said, "While the demands of the information age have presented new challenges to the shipping industry, we believe that the setup of an EDI link for invoices is just one example of the commitments and leadership of HIT in applying advanced information technology so as to better serve our customers. The introduction of EDI Link for invoicing will enable EGL to enhance their payment processing workflow. Manual data entries and verifications can be substantially automated so that accuracy and efficiency can be greatly improved."

Mr Ip added, As the shipping industry continues to have more options as to which ports to send cargo through, it continues to remain vitally important that HIT keep abreast of the latest technological developments so as to maintain its ability to attract the world's carriers.

Following the launch earlier this year of Hong Kong's first Barge Identity Card System and the recent addition of three new rail-mounted jib cranes (RMJC) to handle increased barge volume from the Pearl River Delta Region, the setup of the EDI link with EGL is just one further move by HIT to improve its core business of terminal operations.

Notes to Editor:
Hongkong International Terminals Limited (HIT) is the largest container terminal operator in Hong Kong. HIT's operation accounts for over 50 percent of the throughput at the Kwai Chung Container Port. The Company has consistently won industry awards for its efficiency and high service standards and is at the forefront of new technology and innovation.

HIT is a member of Hutchison Port Holdings Limited (HPH), an independent port investor, developer and operator with operations in 18 ports in Asia, Europe and the Americas.