Shipping experts from the Netherlands visit Huzhou on March 25. [Photo/Tide News]

A group of shipping experts from the Netherlands visited Huzhou in Zhejiang province on March 25.

The visitors inspected the Balidian Charging Station for road and water transportation, learning about the construction of new energy-powered vessels and ship charging stations in the Huzhou navigation area. Discussions revolved around the operational costs and carbon emissions of new energy vessels.

Huzhou officials and the Dutch experts engaged in detailed conversations during a symposium, focusing on the path toward the development of green inland shipping.

The Netherlands boasts a well-developed transportation system, including Europe's largest seaport, the Port of Rotterdam. Known as the "Country of Canals", the Netherlands dominates inland waterway transportation with its extensive network of rivers.

Huzhou, strategically located at the center of the Yangtze River Delta region, is witnessing a continuous increase in water transport volume. The city is planning ship charging stations, promoting vessel electrification, and expanding routes for electric engine-powered ships.

A representative from the Huzhou Port and Shipping Management Center said that the visit by the Dutch experts had opened new avenues for international dialogues on shipping.

Huzhou aims to deepen its cooperation, share innovative ideas and technologies, and advance toward greener, smarter, and more efficient inland shipping.