China’s crane firm denies posing cybersecurity risk at US ports

Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. (ZPMC), a famous heavy-duty equipment manufacturer, said on Sunday that the cranes provided by ZPMC pose no cybersecurity risk to any port.

The company in Sunday’s statement reports that has noticed of the recent actions taken by the U.S. government based on cybersecurity concerns regarding the U.S. ports, as well as media reports alleging that “cellular modems” had been installed on ZPMC´s cranes.

“The cranes provided by ZPMC do not pose a cybersecurity risk to any port,” ZPMC said.

“ZPMC always strictly adheres to the laws and regulations of relevant countries and regions and has been operating in compliance with the applicable laws and regulatory requirements. The cranes supplied by ZPMC are used in ports around the world, including the United States. These cranes are designed, manufactured, transported, assembled, commissioned and delivered strictly in accordance with international standards, applicable laws and regulations, and technical specifications determined by customers,” reads the ZPMC´s official statement.

In late February, President Biden signed an executive order to bolster the security of the nation’s ports, in addition to actions that will strengthen maritime cybersecurity, fortify supply chains and strengthen the US’s industrial base.

The administration will invest over $20bln, including through grants, into U.S. port infrastructure over the next 5 years through the President’s investing in America agenda.

Furthermore, the U.S. Coast Guard has issued a notice of proposed rulemaking on cybersecurity in the marine transportation system.

“America’s prosperity is directly linked to maritime trade and the integrated network of ports, terminals, vessels, waterways, and land-side connections that constitute the Nation’s Marine Transportation System (MTS).

“This complex system supports $5.4 trillion worth of economic activity each year, contributes to the employment of more than 31 million Americans, and supports nearly 95% of cargo entering the U.S,” is highlighted in Biden’s statement. 

^{Source: ZPMC statement, and White House}