Following a long illness George Chao, a shipping legend in Hong Kong and president of Wah Kwong Maritime Transport, died, aged 76, in hospital.
WAH Kwong Maritime Transport Holdings, established 64 years ago, is now one of the largest privately owned shipowners in Hong Kong.
George Chao is one of four sons of T.Y. Chao, the founder of Wah Kwong, and father of Sabrina Chao, the current chairman of the company. The Chao family represents one of the most prominent of Hong Kong’s shipping dynasties.
Wah Kwong is a founding member of the Hong Kong Shipowners Association (HKSOA). As with most other founding members, the company’s heritage can be traced back to the mainland.
Sabrina, George's eldest daughter, took over the running of the company in January 2013, and she is now also the chairman of HKSOA.
"George Chao dedicated his entire career to Wah Kwong and the shipping industry," Wah Kwong said in an email addressed to family and friends informing them of the shipping magnate's passing. "His contribution to the industry spanned a large spectrum."