Columbia Shipmanagement Shanghai has signed a Ship Management Agreement with Dihai Qitai (Shanghai) International Shipping Co. Ltd, formalising a new partnership in oil and chemical tanker management.

Under the new agreement, CSM Shanghai will oversee the technical and operational management of Dihai Qitai’s tankers, integrating global best practices with local expertise to deliver safe, efficient, and compliant operations.

“This agreement represents more than a business partnership, it’s a commitment to raising operational and safety standards within China’s growing tanker sector,” said Terence Zhao, Executive Chairman of CSM Shanghai.. “We are proud to support Chinese shipowners with world-class management systems and tailored local solutions.”

Under the terms of the agreement, CSM Shanghai will provide the following services:

• Professional Chinese Ship Management aligned with international benchmarks.
• Enhanced Flag State Compliance to strengthen Chinese-flag performance and reputation.
• Specialised Training and Career Development for Chinese seafarers operating in the oil and chemical trades.
• Global Standard Management Systems to ensure consistent quality, efficiency, and safety across the fleet.

The agreement marks a significant milestone in the relationship between CSM Shanghai and Dihai Qitai, reinforcing both companies’ shared focus on excellence in energy transportation and sustainable growth in China’s maritime industry.

Mark O’Neil, CEO of Columbia Group, adds: “China is an increasingly important player in global shipping, and partnerships like this are central to Columbia Group’s long-term strategy. By combining our global expertise with the strong local capabilities of Dihai Qitai, we are helping to empower Chinese shipowners to operate at the highest international standards.”

The signing ceremony, held in Shanghai, was attended by senior representatives from both companies, including Mr. Bi Daojun, Chairman of Dihai Qitai; Mr. Lu Jun, General Manager of Dihai Qitai; Mr. Terence Zhao, Executive Chairman of CSM Shanghai; Mr. Bei Bingliang, General Manager of CSM Shanghai and Ms. Alicia Tian, Assistant Commercial Manager at CSM Shanghai.