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COMMUNICATION IS OUR CORNERSTONE
Hutchison Port Holdings Trust Implements 5G Technology
Becoming Hong Kong’s First 5G-operated Terminals
Article Date: 26/03/2023

(Hong Kong, 26 Mar 2023)  Hutchison Port Holdings Trust today announces the deployment of 5G technology at the container terminals under its Hong Kong operations – the first container terminals to become 5G-operated in Hong Kong, setting industry benchmarks for innovation and technology.

Working with 3HK, five 5G base stations have been set up within HPH Trust Hong Kong terminals enabling ultra-high-speed, low latency and massive machine-type communications, which translate into greater remote execution capabilities, more connected devices and the possibility to implement virtual private real-time networks.

The terminals are running three pilot projects including building a secure and reliable communications channel via 5G to control remote rubber-tyred gantry cranes (RTGCs) and a CCTV system with Artificial Intelligence (AI) intrusion detection features at the gatehouse to strengthen the terminals’ security since late 2022; and another CCTV system on quay cranes (QCs) to monitor berth traffic and operations on vessels in the second quarter of this year. These projects are expected to result in reduced operating costs, improved accuracy, safety performance and operational efficiency. They were kickstarted with the funding from the “Subsidy Scheme of Encouraging Early Deployment of 5G” by the Office of the Communications Authority.

“As a pioneer in the use of 5G technology in the industry, we appreciate 5G’s potential as an enabler for greater automation and digitalisation and are glad to see the pilot projects in production operations. Looking ahead, we will incorporate 5G into the terminals’ development in our aspiration to become a smart port – including utilising emerging technologies like AI, IoT, blockchain and machine learning, starting with autonomous driving in the container yard to workplace video analytics to enhance safety and operational efficiency,” said Ivor Chow, Chief Executive Officer of Hutchison Port Holdings Trust.

As digitalisation continues to shape the maritime industry, HPH Trust understands that technology and innovation are the keys to success. We take the lead to make infrastructural development to keep up with the competition, introducing remote control operations, automated systems, integrated platforms and AI applications. Embracing 5G technology will power port digitalisation and take us to a new era.