Preparing for uncertainties in a changing global market

As we shift our focus to 2019, kindly allow me to begin my inaugural message as CSA President in our flagship publication by fittingly extending best wishes to you for the New Year. Another eventful 12 months have gone by, and while our resolve was undoubtedly tested, we demonstrated the resilience and inventiveness that will continue to serve us well as we face the challenges that lie ahead.

I would also like to use this opportunity to express my gratitude for the vote of confidence placed in me to lead this prestigious organization. I am deeply appreciative of this chance to contribute to the CSA, and the welcoming embrace of the regional shipping community has been extremely encouraging.

It would be remiss of me to not offer my sincerest thanks to my immediate predecessor, Mr David Jean Marie, and the members of the General Council who diligently served with him. His insightful stewardship guided us through turbulent times and elevated our standing as an industry. We would not be where we are today without his vision and untiring effort, so I wholeheartedly commend him and the team for providing an excellent platform for me and the present Council to build on going forward.

Uncertainties

As you are well aware, the way forward is beset by uncertainties on all sides. The world economy is expected to continue to show gradual growth similar to last year, but issues related to supply and demand balance, slower growth of global value chains, the comparative slowdown and anticipated rebalancing of the Chinese economy, trade friction between the United States and China, as well as the United Kingdom’s impending exit from the European Union, have led to increased levels of uncertainty. In the face of these geopolitical, economic and trade policy risks, it is imperative that we maintain sight of the bigger picture, effectively leverage current trends and prepare for the opportunities that will inevitably emerge.

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