Maritime experts provide guidance during the training program. [Photo/The Quanzhou Maritime Safety Administration]

Fifteen participants of the "2026 Training Program of Chinese Learning + Maritime Management Skills for Pacific Island Countries" boarded a very large crude carrier (VLCC) on Aug 4 in Quanzhou, Fujian province, for practical exchanges on port state control and ship safety management.

The training combined onboard observation with interactive exercises, allowing participants to learn about safety governance practices for large tankers through real-world scenarios.

Led by two experienced maritime experts, the program focused on key aspects of tanker safety supervision. Participants toured the vessel to gain firsthand knowledge of its safety management systems and port state control procedures through its day-to-day operations.

A participant takes part in hands-on emergency response drills aboard the tanker. [Photo/The Quanzhou Maritime Safety Administration]

The training also included emergency response drills, where participants took part in simulated tanker incidents and learned about standardized response procedures and risk control measures.

During discussions, participants and Chinese experts exchanged views on ship safety supervision, maritime emergency response, and compliance with international conventions. The participants raised questions based on their professional experiences, while experts shared practical insights and case-based knowledge.

The Quanzhou Maritime Safety Administration said that it will continue working to improve the training program, enhancing service support and using insights gained from the exchange to promote further maritime cooperation.