China achieved a significant milestone in the maritime industry by launching its first hydrogen fuel cell river container ship, Dong Fang Qing Gang, on December 18, 2024. This development is a crucial step towards reducing emissions from inland shipping operations. The vessel features the largest hydrogen fuel cell system ever deployed on a ship in China, comprising two 240 kW hydrogen fuel cells and a hydrogen storage system capable of holding 550 kg of hydrogen. The ship is set to operate on the route between Zhapu Port in Jiaxing and Hangzhou’s Xiasha Port. With a capacity to accommodate 64 TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) or 1450 tonnes, the ship measures 64.9 meters in length and displaces 2000 tonnes. The fuel cells, offering a 235-mile range, are developed by Sinosynergy, a Chinese company. Apart from the hydrogen fuel cells, the power system of the vessel includes storage for hydrogen, a supply system connected to a lithium battery, and the installation of propulsion and control systems on a ship for the first time. The hull of the ship was launched in Zhejiang Province, and the vessel will undergo fitting and testing, with plans for a demonstration in 2025. China's initiative extends beyond hydrogen-powered ships, including projects on battery-powered ships and an electrification and charging system. These efforts reflect a broader exploration of sustainable and innovative solutions for the maritime industry, showcasing China's commitment to environmental conservation and technological advancement in shipping.