China is now far behind other: powers so far as the shipping is concerned. During the present time of reconstruction, the Chinese Gov: ernment should pay special attention to this question, and should build vvessela of the latest types to develop her shipping so that she can compete with' other powers. The Chinese coast, as far south a2 Hainan Island and as far north as New chuang, is more than 1,500 miles in length. Apart from this huge coast line, there are numerous me among which the fet and the West River ave the most convenient for naviga tion.
However, there are only 573 Chinese-owned steamers plying along China's coast and inland rivers. As to foreign trade, there participa in the shipping mot a single Chinese-owned vessel
business with the exception of a piloted by foreigners and placed n the service between the Chinese ports and Singapore.
During the present development of the international trade, the development of China's foreign trade is most important. Unfor-all Chinese-owned ships are cither small or of the old type and cannot be placed on ocean service, If China is anxious to develop her foreign trade, she must first build suitable ships." Further-tly in need of lots for though she may jed with suitable number fof modern ships, she will have to depend upon foreigners for their control and pilotage:
Training for Pilots Therefore the training of expert pilots is of first importance for the development of China's foreign trade, The training of expert pilots is comparatively easy. Navigation Colleges must be established in Shanghai, Canton, Tientsin, and other places of importance. For the'time being, foreigners must be appointed members of the teaching staff of these colleges and these foreigners may be relieved of their Positions when there is a sufficient number of Chinese who can take the places of foreigners. After some years, qualified experts will be: trained, and employed.
Next, China should establish a number of organs for the control of shipping, like Britain's port and navigation offices. These offices will be established for the planning and construction of now ships, for deciding on the kinils of ships, ete., 0 that Chinese ships may compete with foreign ships. In connection with this point, China is also. ood of experts and will have to depend upon foreigners.
'One thing of most importance is that Chinese ships to be used to cai!' on foreign ports must have a Tine drawa on the ship to show how much weight of cargo this particular ship can bear. China should also follow the example of foreign ower in the drafting of navigation The most important regulations
Text read from the printed page and cleaned; old type leaves the occasional error.