The Port of Long Beach has presented its highest honor, the Honorary Port Pilot Award, to C. C. Tung, the chairman and chief executive of Hong Kong-based Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL), for his significant accomplishments in international trade.
Named to head OOCL in 1997, Tung has expanded the company’s services in China, introduced e-commerce technology and launched a new generation of mega-ships. OOCL was among the first carriers to deploy ships that carry the equivalent of 8,000 twenty-foot cargo containers, including the OOCL Long Beach, which called in Long Beach in July.
“I am particularly pleased to honor Mr. Tung because of our very long, and very special relationship with OOCL,” said Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners President John W. Hancock. “OOCL is one of the Port of Long Beach’s most valued customers. We have been fortunate to have OOCL vessels call in Long Beach since 1969.”
Tung, Long Beach’s 71st Port Pilot honoree, was presented the award at a luncheon Nov. 12 in Hong Kong.
The award is named for the port pilots who are entrusted to safely guide cargo ships in and out of the port. Since 1954, the port has honored individuals for their leadership and achievements in international trade. The port has presented the award to CEOs of leading corporations, prime ministers, ambassadors, members of Congress, Cabinet officials and presidents, including President Ronald Reagan.
Tung is widely regarded among his peers in the maritime industry. He has been president of the Hong Kong Shipowners’ Association. Earlier this month, he was elected as president of the Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO), the world’s largest shipping organization.
