HAFFA recently held its first 21st luncheon for senior executives on 9 December which gathered member forwarders and other air cargo stakeholders in Hong Kong for a day of networking and camaraderie.
The Hong Kong forwarder group said the luncheon was a ‘record-breaking event on many levels’ with sold-out seats and an impressive list of representatives from forwarders, airlines, cargo terminal operators, Hong Kong airport and non-member forwarding agents, showing a ‘strong and united’ forwarders community.
Payload Asia got a chance to catch up with HAFFA chairman Gary Lau to talk about the recent luncheon as well as new policies that could affect the flow of cargo through Hong Kong and China.
What were the highlights of the luncheon and discussion?
Mr. Benjamin Mok, Deputy Commissioner for the Development of the Guangdong-HK-Macao Greater Bay Area of the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau was invited to speak at the luncheon. He gave an informative presentation on the opportunities of the Greater Bay Area (GBA) Development for Hong Kong and explained the significance of GBA Development to Hong Kong. Mr. Mok also elaborated Hong Kong’s role under the national 14th Five-Year Plan.
Was there commitment from new or non-members to join HAFFA?
We are closely working with many companies and offer assistance for them to apply for HAFFA membership.
How does the forwarding community see China’s new policy to not accept cargo flown on aircraft passenger cabin?
The industry will use charter flights and rail freight to meet the demand. Strong air freight demand will push up rates. Overall logistics cost will rise too.
When is the next event?
This is an annual event. Subject to the Government’s social distancing requirement, we plan to organize the luncheon again next year.
