THIS week's Shipping Hong Kong conference features a Business of Crisis Media Management session today, (Tuesday February 28) at the Hong Kong Jockey Club Members Suite 3/F in Happy Valley, where one can learn public relations techniques and how the US Coast Guard deploys social media to advantage.

On Wednesday, February 29 there will be a session on marine insurance and P+I (property and indemnity) Clubs, and piracy from all angles - financial, armed guards, contractual, negotiations and cost to the industry and possible solutions. China pollution legislation, vetting, hedging strategies (freight/bunkers/currency) and magic-pipes are all covered.

"We look at the all important issues of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and the UK Bribery Act and how they can affect you in Hong Kong and elsewhere. For owners the important issue of sanctions worldwide, how do you handle it and where will it end? The closing session will deal with how to plan and manage potential risks.

On Thursday, March 1, there will be a session on China's changing trade patterns, the new sea route over the north pole, the quality and cost of ships and in these depressed markets.

Should you outsource your ship management - listen to our experienced panel who have seen both sides. Sinopacific chairman Simon Liang discusses industrial shipowners and an examination of non-banking finance and using mergers and acquisition and private equity for restructuring.