The Phoenix Register of Shipping (PHRS), a globally renowned ship inspection and certification organization, established its Asian headquarters in the Qingdao Area of the China (Shandong) Pilot Free Trade Zone, also known as Qingdao FTZ,  on Feb 18, marking the city's first ship classification society headquarters in Asia.

Founded in 2000, PHRS provides comprehensive services including ship classification, certification, and verification. To date, it ranks top 10 globally and has classified nearly 1,000 ships with a total tonnage of about 13 million. With its reliable infrastructure and strong operational team, PHRS has long provided excellent maritime services.

PHRS establishes its Asian headquarters in Qingdao Free Trade Zone. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

PHRS has chosen Qingdao FTZ as its base for its first Asian expansion, establishing Phoenix Register of Shipping (Qingdao) Co to offer ship classification services. In the future, PHRS plans to expand from Qingdao, covering surrounding regions, and aims to add 300 ships for classification within the next three years, further solidifying Qingdao's position in global shipping.

Qingdao FTZ aims to create an open, innovative industrial environment that attracts international high-end shipping resources and creates a globally influential shipping center. PHRS will enhance inspection and certification services for local shipping enterprises, drive the growth of related industries like ship design and trade, and strengthen maritime cooperation with Belt and Road countries.