Banle Group, an Asia-Pacific marine fuel logistics provider, has recently hosted its inaugural ESG Forum titled ‘Charting the New Horizon: Powering Green Shipping with Sustainable Fuels’ in Hong Kong. The forum brought together senior maritime executives, financiers, legal experts and climate scientists to deliberate on the shipping industry’s decarbonisation pathway.

The event featured insights from Teck Lim Chia, Chairman and CEO, Banle Group; Karen Cheah Yee-Lynn, Independent Director, Banle Group and Partner, Chooi & Company; Matt Liu Ming-Hsuan, SVP Capital Solutions, Cathay United Bank; Wilson Cheung Wai-yin, Polar Explorer and Glaciologist; and Rebecca Zhang, Senior Manager – Sustainable Finance, HSBC Hong Kong.

In his keynote address, Teck Lim Chia said, “The global shipping industry stands at a pivotal moment. Rapid regulatory changes, geopolitical tensions, climate challenges and technological advancements are reshaping the landscape at unprecedented speed. Yet, we are dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment where stakeholders can come together to share insights and develop strategies for a more sustainable future.”

Karen Cheah highlighted ESG as a legal, economic and moral imperative, emphasising the need for planetary health metrics to translate sustainability from aspiration into measurable action across governance and capital markets.

Matt Liu outlined the role of sustainability-linked financing, noting that clearly defined KPIs and achievable sustainability performance targets are critical to aligning financial innovation with environmental outcomes.

Wilson Cheung underscored responsible shipping opportunities in polar regions, stressing the importance of cleaner fuels, ice-class vessels and respect for fragile ecosystems and Indigenous communities. Rebecca Zhang shared perspectives on evolving regulations and the growing adoption of alternative fuels such as biofuels and bio-LNG.

The forum concluded with interactive networking, reinforcing collective commitment to sustainable maritime practices. Banle Group also highlighted its ongoing sustainability initiatives, including participation in the EcoVadis rating system and advocacy for sustainable marine fuels, and confirmed plans to host future ESG forums.