Hongkong International Terminals (HIT) has announced the launch of its Remote Reefer Container Monitoring System, establishing 24x7 automated remote management of refrigerated containers and allowing greater visibility and accuracy on container conditions such as temperature, humidity and CO₂ level.

In a statement, it said the initiative aims to enhance the terminals’ operational efficiency and occupational safety, enabling them to capture growing business opportunities in the cold chain logistics market.

According to MarketandMarkets.com, the global cold chain market size is valued at US$233.8 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach US$340.3 billion by 2025, with a CAGR of 7.8% — and the Asia-Pacific region is projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period.

HIT noted that Hong Kong handled around 900,000 TEU of reefer containers in 2020 and is the largest fresh fruit trading hub in South China.

Fresh produce worth more than US$3 billion arrives in Hong Kong annually, around 60% of which is then transported onward to mainland China.

Cold chain investments

It also noted that Hong Kong is now widely recognised as the port of choice for fruit shipments across the border, with growth in shipments for durians and cherries.

“To stay ahead of the ever-changing market landscape, HIT has long been investing resources in bolstering its competitiveness through technological innovation, operational excellence and facilities improvement,” said Leonard Fung, managing director of HIT.

“The launch of the Remote Reefer Container Monitoring System is itself a cornerstone signifying the importance of digitalising terminal operations. This will go a long way in enhancing the holistic operational efficiency and competitiveness of our terminals while reaffirming the city’s leading status in the cold chain logistics industry,” he added.

The Remote Reefer Container Monitoring System has been fully deployed at HIT, COSCO-HIT and ACT, the biggest coverage of its kind in the Greater Bay Area.

In its statement, HIT noted that prior to this, reefer workers would have to go on-site to check reefer conditions and alarms regularly. The implementation of the system has not only saved reefer workers’ time on physical yard inspection but also improved occupational safety.

“With the rigour and accuracy of inspection of reefer facilities reinforced, HIT is able to create a more efficient, reliable, and safer logistics gateway for partners by ensuring that temperature-controlled daily necessities ... maintain their freshness and potency throughout the journey,” it added.

Currently, the port of Hong Kong deploys over 8,000 reefer points, surpassing all other terminals in the South China region.

With a container handling capacity twice that of any terminal in the region, Hong Kong has set an unrivalled standard in the cold chain logistics industry.