The Yangtze River Administration under the Ministry of Transport gathered nearly 50 major Yangtze port operators and shipping lines on 9 February to discuss their performance in the fourth quarter of 2011 and their business prospects for the year ahead.

In terms of operations, it was discovered that port operators are generally doing better than shipping lines. Among the shipping lines, those involved in liquid dangerous cargo have been outperforming those involved in general cargo.

Most port operators are optimistic about this year’s prospects, while the majority of barge operators are cautious. Many of the participating companies raised specific issues with senior officials from the administration, who in turn agreed to help.