IBIA – The International Bunker Industry Association and the International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) have entered into a reciprocal membership agreement to reinforce collaboration between the dry bulk shipping and marine fuels communities.

This new partnership formalises the close working relationship between the two associations and reflects their shared commitment to advancing safe, efficient, and sustainable maritime operations, particularly in the areas of fuel quality, safety, and decarbonisation.

Through reciprocal membership, IBIA and INTERCARGO will gain greater access to each other’s expertise, activities, and working groups. The agreement will encourage the exchange of knowledge and best practices, strengthen coordination in international forums such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and enhance engagement on issues of mutual interest.

The collaboration will support dialogue between shipowners and the fuel supply chain, promote the development of safe and reliable bunkering practices, and contribute to the industry’s transition towards low and zero-carbon fuels.

Alexander Prokopakis, Executive Director of IBIA said: “We are delighted to welcome INTERCARGO as an IBIA member. Collaboration is vital as the industry moves towards new fuels and technologies, and this collaboration ensures our associations work hand in hand to promote safe, sustainable, and practical solutions for the future.”

Dimitris Monioudis, Chairman of INTERCARGO’s Technical Committee added: “INTERCARGO strives to engage and collaborate with all industry stakeholders for the sake of a genuinely sustainable dry bulk sector. IBIA’s joining the INTERCARGO wider membership will provide us with expert knowledge and experience in relation to fuels available both today as well as in the future, always focusing on safe and pragmatic roadmaps available to our members.”

Both organisations reaffirm their commitment to continuous dialogue and cooperation in support of the wider maritime community.

About IBIA

IBIA – The International Bunker Industry Association is the voice of the global marine energy supply chain, representing a diverse membership of shipowners, fuel suppliers, traders, brokers, surveyors, port authorities, and maritime professionals across more than 70 countries. Established in 1993, IBIA promotes transparency, quality, and high standards in marine fuel operations and supports the industry’s transition to low and zero-carbon fuels. Through advocacy at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and its global network of training, events, and working groups, IBIA connects the industry to drive safe, sustainable, and practical solutions for the future of marine energy.

About INTERCARGO

The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) unites and promotes quality dry bulk shipping, bringing together more than 350 forward thinking companies from 37 countries. The dry bulk sector is the largest shipping sector in terms of number of ships and deadweight. Dry bulk carriers account for 43% of the world fleet (in tonnage) and carry an estimated 55% of the global transport work. INTERCARGO convened for the first time in 1980 in London and has been participating with consultative status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) since 1993. INTERCARGO provides the forum where dry bulk shipowners, managers and operators are informed about, discuss, and share concerns on key topics and regulatory challenges, especially in relation to safety, security, the environment, and operational excellence. The Association promotes its members’ positions at the IMO, EU as well as other shipping and international industry fora, always maintaining free and fair competition as a focal principle.

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The 24th NAVIGATOR – The Shipping Decision Makers Forum 2025 returns more dynamic than ever on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, from 09:00 to 16:30 at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center Lighthouse, under the theme “SHAPE THE SEAS” – a call to the maritime community to actively shape the future of the sea.

For nearly three decades, the NAVIGATOR Forum has been a think tank of ideas, strategy, and dialogue, where the shipping industry’s decision makers meet to exchange experiences, forecast trends, and co-design the course of a sector that serves as a cornerstone of both the Greek and global economy.

This year’s event focuses on how the maritime community is responding to rapid geopolitical developments, the green transition, the digital revolution, and most importantly, the human factor – the invaluable asset that remains the beating heart of shipping.

The 24th NAVIGATOR 2025 will host leading speakers from across the maritime spectrum, who will share their insights and proposals through a carefully curated program of discussions and presentations.

Opening remarks will be delivered by Mr. Stefanos Gikas, Deputy Minister of Maritime Affairs & Insular Policy, Mr. George Alexandratos, President of the Hellenic Chamber of Shipping, and H.E. Fang Qiu, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, while H.E. Matthew Lodge, British Ambassador to Greece, will also take part in a panel discussion. Moreover, Dr. Kyriacos Sabatakakis, Country Managing Director – ACCENTURE will present research regarding Artificial intelligence.  

A highlight of this year’s Forum will be the presentation of the NAVIGATOR Assembly 2025 (that took place in March of 2025) outcomes, where 300 top executives from leading shipping companies representing the whole spectrum of maritime cluster participated in closed thematic discussions, identifying trends and challenges that will directly shape the future of global shipping.

⚓ 2025 THEMATIC SESSIONS

This year’s Forum includes five interactive panels, spotlighting the key forces of change driving the industry:

Decarbonisation: From Oil to Green – The Transition Dilemma

Disruption on Deck: Who Controls the Future of Smart Shipping

ESG Perspectives: Private vs. Listed Companies in Dialogue

The Human Element Onboard & Ashore: Challenges to Tackle, Solutions to Unlock

Sea Power & Global Politics: Who Rules the Shipping Routes?

More information and full agenda:

www.navigatorltd.gr/forums/24th-navigator-forum-2025

Registration:

https://www.eventora.com/en/Events/24th-navigator-2025?c=p

About NAVIGATOR SHIPPING CONSULTANTS

Founded in 1991, NAVIGATOR SHIPPING CONSULTANTS has established a global network of agents and partners across more than 1,400 ports with more than 1,000 tugboats. For over 24 years, the NAVIGATOR – The Shipping Decision Makers Forum has been a reference point for international maritime thought, promoting collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange among leading professionals of the shipping industry.

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Bureau Veritas (BV), a world leader in testing, inspection, and certification, along with more than 30 European companies from the French and international nuclear and maritime sectors, has formally signed the Declaration of Cooperation for Accelerating Nuclear for Maritime Applications to meet Climate Ambitions during the World Nuclear Exhibition in Paris. The signing represents a landmark initiative uniting international stakeholders across the nuclear, maritime, research, financial and regulatory communities in a shared commitment to promote a European initiative to advance the safe and sustainable use of nuclear technologies for maritime decarbonization.

The declaration recognizes the critical role of the maritime sector in achieving global climate goals and the need to transition to low-carbon energy systems. It highlights the potential of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) to become a safe, reliable, and sustainable solution for maritime and port energy systems. Together, the signatories reaffirmed their commitment to advancing innovation in line with the France 2030 Investment Plan, which allocates €1 billion to the development of innovative nuclear technologies, including SMRs.

The signatories have committed to an ongoing collaborative effort – across industries – to address technological, regulatory, and societal challenges, and to identify pilot projects to test and validate nuclear-powered solutions. The declaration also emphasizes transparent communication on nuclear safety to build public understanding and trust.

In addition, the participants encourage Administrations to develop a robust European ecosystem that will facilitate the development of nuclear technologies in maritime operations; to strengthen international collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO); and to call on governments and institutions to provide regulatory clarity, equitable access to climate finance, and harmonized safety standards. Progress will be reviewed annually to ensure transparency and alignment with global climate and energy transition targets.

Matthieu de Tugny, Executive Vice President, Industrials and Commodities at Bureau Veritas, said: “This declaration marks an important milestone in aligning nuclear and maritime expertise to accelerate decarbonization and support the long-term sustainability of global shipping. The integration of nuclear technology into maritime operations represents a transformative opportunity, but it must be built on the foundations of safety, transparency, and international cooperation. With recognized competences in both the maritime and nuclear sectors, Bureau Veritas is uniquely positioned to help ensure that innovation advances responsibly and sustainably.”

Christine Cabau Woehrel, Executive Vice President Assets & Operations at CMA CGM, and Chair of the Steering Committee of the New Energies Coalition, declared: “The role of nuclear energy in the decarbonization of maritime and port environments is emerging with both promise and responsibility. By joining forces with Bureau Veritas, Onet, Bessé and our international partners, we are taking an initial yet determined step toward exploring how advanced nuclear technologies — such as SMRs — can contribute safely and sustainably to the energy transition of the maritime sector in the long run. Collaboration, transparency, and scientific rigor will guide our path forward for port electrification and maritime decarbonization."
Émilie de Lombarès, Chairwoman of the Executive Board at Onet Group, declared: “This declaration of cooperation emphasizes the need for coordinated international efforts to address the technological, regulatory, societal, and financial challenges associated with integrating civil nuclear power into the maritime sector. Given Onet Group has supported the French nuclear sector for around 50 years, our long-standing presence has given us a unique, hands-on understanding of the industry’s evolution. We are actively supporting several innovative projects for decarbonization, involving SMRs because we think the SMR approach is a new opportunity to re-evaluate the potential of nuclear energy for maritime industry. That is why we joined forces with Bureau Veritas, CMA CGM, Bessé as well as other international partners to invite all stakeholders in the nuclear and maritime sectors to join this collective movement as to build a sustainable, secure, and resilient maritime future, showcasing French and European leadership.”

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Laskaridis Shipping Co Ltd., led by Panos Laskaridis, has taken delivery of the new-built ship “Pafsanias”.

More specifically, a relevant post on the company’s social media states: “We are proud to announce the successful delivery of our latest new-built bulk carrier.

Built at COSCO SHIPPING HEAVY INDUSTRY (YANGZHOU) Co. Ltd, MV PAFSANIAS is designed for performance, efficiency and a lower environmental footprint – a reflection of our commitment to sustainable growth in the maritime industry.

MV PAFSANIAS is the first vessel of our latest newbuilding programme to be delivered, that represents not only fleet renewal but more importantly our commitment to a greener, smarter and more efficient future for global shipping.

This latest newbuilding programme of Lavinia Group includes:

COSCO SHIPPING HEAVY INDUSTRY (YANGZHOU) Co. Ltd.: Three (3) KAMSARMAXES (82.000 DWT)

C.M.I. Qingdao Shipyard: Four (4) KAMSARMAXES

Jiangsu New Hantong Ship Heavy Industry: One (1) KAMSARMAX

Zhoushan Changhong International Shipyard: Three (3) MR-2 Chemical/Product Tankers (50.000 DWT)”.

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Navios Maritime Partners L.P. has placed USD 300 million of new senior unsecured bonds in the Nordic bond market. The new bonds are due to mature in November 2030 and will pay a fixed coupon of 7.75% per annum, payable semi-annually in arrears. An application will be made for the bonds to be listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange.

The net proceeds from the bond issue are intended to be used for the repayment of certain of the Company’s outstanding secured debt facilities and for general corporate purposes of the group.

Arctic Securities AS acted as Sole Global Coordinator and Bookrunner, Fearnley Securities AS and Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB (publ) Oslofilialen acted as Joint Bookrunners, Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank acted as passive Joint Lead Manager and S. Goldman Advisors LLC acted as Co-Manager in the bond issue.

The senior unsecured bonds are being sold in the United States or its territories only to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers as defined under Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”). The bonds have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities of Navios Maritime Partners L.P., nor shall it constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale is unlawful.

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An article written by Nigel Lowry and published in Lloyd’s List

VAFIAS Group has achieved a decades-old ‘dream’ in achieving debt-free status, it has confirmed, even as it continues a fleet expansion with further dry bulk carrier buys.

The milestone is all the more notable for encompassing about 100 unencumbered vessels of various types across five different companies, two of them privately held and three publicly listed.

Nasdaq-listed liquefied petroleum gas carrier owner StealthGas paid off the loan on a last bank-financed vessel in July this year, while the zero-debt status of spin-offs Imperial Petroleum and C3is Inc. have also been a matter of public record.

But shipowner Harry Vafias has confirmed to Lloyd’s List that the privately owned bulker and tanker fleet under family companies Brave Maritime and Stealth Maritime has also freed itself of bank debt.

Just two years ago, the total debt of the group and public affiliates came to $1.1bn.

Although many Greece-based shipowners in the last few years have opted to use excess market earnings to prepay loans during a period of relatively high interest rates, few will have completely wiped out debt on such a large fleet, especially while managing to expand at a rapid clip.

Brave has just clinched the acquisition of a nine-year-old, Japanese-controlled handysize bulker, Seacon Manila (IMO: 9766231), for $17.2m, according to sources familiar with the deal.

The 33,412 dwt vessel was built by Shin Kochi Heavy Industries.

Vafias declined to confirm the latest transaction, but verified reports that the company has acquired a trio of similar handies of about 34,400 dwt, from MUR Shipping.

African Goshawk (IMO: 9728485), African Heron (IMO: 9750000) and African Merlin (IMO: 9701267), all constructed by Namura Shipbuilding in 2016, are being purchased for a price of $17.4m each.

The four latest purchases, which are all scheduled to be delivered before the end of this year, bring the Brave Maritime-managed fleet to about 40 bulkers, up from a group tally of just 11 bulkers three years ago.

Handysize bulkers were “a no-brainer” at the moment, Vafias said.

Last year, the company purchased five kamsarmaxes and five supramaxes, but secondhand prices in these segments had risen, while handysizes had remained lower, as well as having a smaller orderbook.

“They are more versatile ships and at the moment they are earning close to $19,000 per day on the spot market. They are earning more than kamsarmaxes,” he said.

“We try to identify small niches that represent good value and to move quickly.”

Over the summer the owner was also buying product tankers, applying similar principles.

The group is reckoned to have been the most active secondhand buyer over the last two years from the Greek shipowning community, which has dominated secondhand buying along with Chinese interests.

Despite the regularity of its deal-making, it has almost entirely eschewed Chinese-built vessels and has focused strongly on Japanese-built tonnage.

Vafias said about 70% of the fleet was constructed in Japan with the balance in South Korea, with the exception of a solitary Chinese built vessel.

Currently, the group’s fleet, including both privately owned and publicly listed fleets, has an estimated value of about $2.8bn.

He said that being debt-free gave the group, above all, “freedom — and a lot of flexibility”.

It meant that “we have a lower break-even rate than the competition and we can raise debt at any time if we want to”, he added.

According to Vafias, the inspiration for eradicating debt was planted back in the mid-1990s by compatriot shipowner Thanassis Martinos of Eastern Mediterranean Maritime.

“He told us [Harry together with father Nicholas Vafias, who is still active in the business] that he had a debt-free fleet.

“That was 30 years ago and we were so far away from something like that, it seemed like a dream,” he said.

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Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the leading voice of the global cruise industry, is showcasing the benefits of a thriving cruise sector for communities in Greece with the launch of an exhibition on sustainable cruise tourism in partnership with the Eugenides Foundation. The opening event of the Exhibition, held yesterday at the premises of Eugenides Foundation, follows CLIA’s campaign which, through a series of videos, aims to amplify the voice of the cruise community in Greece and showcase how the sector is a driving force for growth and prosperity.

Mrs. Maria Deligianni, Regional Director, Eastern Mediterranean, CLIA, said: “Greece is at the heart of Mediterranean cruising, and as we highlight through our exhibition and campaign today, partnerships are key to preserving the country’s attractiveness as a great place to visit and to live. With data showing that over 55% of cruise traffic is concentrated in only three ports, we support the Government’s efforts to enhance the visitor experience and develop new destinations. We believe that investing the cruise fee to support this ambition can help spread the benefits of cruise tourism more widely, enabling balanced and sustainable growth and strengthening Greece’s role as a premier hub for cruising. Building on this ambition, we propose the creation of a National Cruise Development Plan, which will be accompanied by a clear timeline for initiating investments and supporting new destinations in Greece. We suggest that this plan be developed by the Greek Government in collaboration with the cruise industry as part of our ongoing dialogue. The implementation of the plan will be funded by revenues from the cruise fee, considering the needs for port infrastructure, development, and the promotional activities required at each destination.”

Mr. Leonidas Dimitriadis-Eugenides, President of the Eugenides Foundation and Goodwill Maritime Ambassador of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), stated: “Cruise tourism is a dynamic sector with a significant contribution to both the European and the Greek economy. Its development must be grounded in balance, strategic planning, and respect for the environment and local communities. Because progress has real meaning only when it combines economic prosperity with knowledge, education, and sustainability. In this context, at the Eugenides Foundation, we believe it is especially important for Greeks — and particularly young people — to acquire the skills that will enable them to take full advantage of the opportunities this growth presents.”

Cruise sector innovations driving sustainability

Reinforcing the sector’s commitment to sustainability, CLIA shared the results of its annual Environmental Technologies and Practices report. The 2025 report shows continuous and measurable progress by member cruise lines as they advance an ambitious environmental agenda — from testing and piloting biofuels, investing in fuel-flexible engines, to the increasing use of lower emissions fuels, and maximizing energy-efficiency measures. Cruise lines are early adopters and innovators of maritime technology — examples include advanced wastewater systems, onshore power supply, air lubrication systems, and the newest generation of dual-fuel engines — from which other sectors of maritime also benefit. Cruise lines are investing tens of billions of euros to build the fleet of the future, including more than 80 new ships on order worldwide that feature these and other innovations.

Generating economic and social benefits for Mykonos economy

CLIA also unveiled the results of a study by the international research firm Oxford Economics showing that cruise tourism generated €201 million to Mykonos economy in 2024. The study also found that cruise tourism in Mykonos supports nearly 3,000 jobs in the economy of the area, highlighting the sector’s significant contribution to local livelihoods. With a focus on Mykonos, the study revealed that cruise passengers spend an average of €107 per person on the island during average stays onshore of a little under six hours. The study shows how cruise tourism serves to introduce Greece to new visitors — eight out of ten (transit) cruise guests in 2024 were visiting the island for the first time, and over half visiting Greece for the first time.

CLIA also announced that it has commissioned a similar study from the University of Piraeus on the economic impact of cruising in Santorini with initial findings expected in early 2026 and the final report to be released in July 2026.

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The Swedish Club celebrated the 45th anniversary of its Greek office, marking nearly half a century of continuous service to the world’s most influential shipowning community.

Established in Piraeus in 1980, the office has grown alongside Greek shipping, supporting members through market cycles, regulatory change, and evolving risk. What remains constant is a model built for Greece: Hull & Machinery, P&I, claims handling and underwriting expertise delivered locally, in close partnership with members, brokers and stakeholders.

“Forty-five years on, our purpose in Greece is unchanged: be present, be practical and be fast,” said Ludvig Nyhlén, Area Manager, Greece, The Swedish Club. “What sets this office apart is that we make decisions here. Members have direct access to H&M, P&I, claims and underwriting under one roof, in their time zone and in their market. That local capability, combined with the strength of the global Club has earned trust over decades.”

Greek shipping has transformed from a traditional, family-run sector into a diversified global industry operating across every vessel segment. Throughout this evolution, the Club has adapted its support: reinforcing local claims and underwriting capacity; expanding loss prevention services; and bringing data-led tools to members while maintaining the personal relationships and responsiveness that define the Athens office.

“The Greek market moves quickly and values relationships,” said Thomas Nordberg, Managing Director, The Swedish Club. “Our Athens team reflects that culture. They pair deep local insight with the Club’s international standards and resources, so members get the best of both worlds, local agility and global strength.”
The anniversary also highlights the office’s role in promoting safer operations through practical loss prevention training, monthly safety scenarios, emergency response exercises, and guidance on emerging risks such as alternative fuels, sanctions compliance and cyber security. The Club’s recent wellbeing initiatives, including Check Your Pulse and family support resources, underline an approach to risk that starts with people and culture on board.

Looking ahead, the Athens office will continue to invest in capabilities that matter most to Greek owners and managers: rapid claims decision-making; technical and legal expertise close at hand; and data-driven insight that turns experience into prevention. The focus is on helping members navigate a more complex world, whether driven by regulation, geopolitics or technology, and without losing the speed and clarity that Greek clients expect.

“We’re proud of what’s been built here by our team, our members, our brokers and partners,” added Ludvig. “This anniversary belongs to the community that has supported us for 45 years. Our ambition for the next decade is simple: stay close to our members, keep strengthening our local service, and keep earning trust, case by case, day by day.”

The Swedish Club will mark the anniversary in Athens, bringing together members, brokers, partners and colleagues to celebrate shared achievements and look to the future.

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Collaboration is key across maritime, trade and logistics if the sectors are to achieve their goals on equality, gender diversity and decarbonisation, according to speakers at the 2025 WISTA AGM and Conference, held in Barcelona between 22-24 October.

The event, the largest staged by the association in its more than 50-year history, brought together over 400 maritime professionals and leaders from around the world.

In her keynote speech, WISTA International President, Elpi Petraki stressed that collective commitment had been the source of WISTA’s strength in moving the entire maritime industry forward on gender equality.
“Collaboration has always been shipping’s greatest strength. It unites people from all corners of the world, across cultures and disciplines,” she said. “When we bring diverse perspectives together, we don’t just solve problems — we create new possibilities. That is where innovation begins.”

Drawing inspiration from this year’s Nobel laureates in Economic Sciences, who showed that progress often comes through creative destruction, Petraki applied the same principle to the current industry situation, surmising that what might seem disruptive at first can in fact lead to renewal and long-term growth.
Welcoming delegates to the gathering supported by the Port of Barcelona, as well as national and regional transport administrations, Jose Alberto Carbonell, President, Port of Barcelona pledged the Port’s commitment to gender equality and innovation. He urged the industry to respond to its challenges with purpose.
“The sector must follow what WISTA has done and continues to do; challenge the status quo, innovate, and even in the most difficult context, move forward with determination.”

The sentiment was shared by Benito Núñez Quintanilla, Secretary of State of Maritime and Air Transport, who highlighted the Ministry’s support for WISTA International and the nation’s strong belief in gender balance and equality - not only as a general principle, but as essential to the sector’s success.

Núñez Quintanilla took the opportunity to reaffirm the Spanish Government’s commitment to fully decarbonising the maritime industry as part of the international trading system. Manel Nadal, Secretary of Mobility and Infrastructures of the Government of Catalonia, highlighted the importance of the maritime sector in Catalonia, as a centre for logistics and ports activities that sustains over 24,000 companies.

Rosana Velasco, President of WISTA Spain, emphasised the significance of late 2025 as a critical moment for leaders in the energy, maritime, and trade sectors to come together to exchange ideas, inspire action, and shape the industry’s future.

The importance of global collaboration was further reflected in the event theme - Powering the Future of Shipping & Trade: Global Energy in Challenging Times – with the conference agenda delivering a series of thought-provoking discussions on the complexities of international trade, logistics and shipping today.

Programme highlights included a panel discussion on decarbonisation where the Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization, Arsenio Dominguez, summarised the outcome of the latest MEPC extraordinary session and next steps. Other sessions also provided insights into the impact of shore power and just-in-time port calls on sustainability and how the industry is adapting to geopolitical tensions, new trade barriers, and the digital transformation of supply chains.

An exclusive fireside chat between Dominguez and Dorothea Ioannou, CEO, The American P&I Club, offered a deeply engaging conversation that focused on policy, regulations and human factors in global shipping. Discussions covered a wide array of topics, including decarbonisation and legal frameworks, the treatment and criminalisation of seafarers, safety, human rights and crew welfare, women in maritime, the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty, and the role of the IMO.

In the days ahead of the conference, WISTA International hosted its President’s roundtable and Annual General Meeting. This year’s event saw Mariella Collazzi appointed Treasurer of the WISTA International Executive Committee, with Connie Roozen stepping down after seven years of dedicated service. During the AGM, three new National WISTA Associations (NWAs) were announced – Croatia, Kenya and Malta – in addition to the relaunch of WISTA Japan.

In the spirit of change, a new brand identity was also unveiled, with the new WISTA International logo representing the global reach, unity, and forward movement for women in the shipping, trading, and logistics sectors.

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GIT Coatings (Graphite Innovation & Technologies Inc.), a global leader in biocide-free, graphene-based marine coatings, proudly announced an additional $5M in EDC funding during the Grand Opening of their new Global Headquarters and Flagship Operations at 409 Wilkinson Avenue in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada.

The opening event marked a major milestone in GIT Coatings’ mission to redefine marine sustainability through advanced materials innovation. The new building includes 10 times the square footage of their previous headquarters and manufacturing facility allowing the company to scale manufacturing, R&D, quality control, and global support functions under one carbon-neutral roof.

During the event, an additional scaleup fund from Export Development Canada (EDC) was also announced in GIT’s production area which saw 100+ attendees including local MPs, MLAs, investors and stakeholders. EDC will contribute up to $5m in financial support to further expand GIT’s global market presence and export capabilities.

With GIT Coatings now applied to over 500 vessels across 20+ countries, the graphene-based technologies are enabling shipowners to reduce fuel consumption, cut CO2 emissions, and eliminate toxic copper and silicon oil release from oceans. Collectively, these deployments have prevented nearly 250,000 tonnes of CO2 and copper pollution to date. A testament to Canadian innovation driving global environmental impact.

“Today is a proud milestone for our entire team and for Canada’s ocean and clean-tech communities” said Mo AlGermozi, CEO of GIT Coatings. “This world-class site lets us manufacture at scale, accelerate R&D, and serve customers in every major shipping market. All from right here in Dartmouth. With 95% of our revenue coming from exports, we’re proving that Canadian clean technology can compete globally while creating high-quality jobs at home.”

The company previously utilized a space at 1 Research Drive in Dartmouth, Canada, where economic development organization, Invest Nova Scotia, houses a production incubation centre for local companies.

Minister of Environment and Climate Change, the Honurable Timothy Halman, Government of Nova Scotia

stated the following: “We don’t follow — we lead. The innovation you’re showing the world is a testament to that. Innovation requires an innovative government and innovative regulators. Change doesn’t come from government; it comes from the private sector — from the innovators.

The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) also previously supported GIT’s expansion with a financial contribution, helping fund the building upgrades and production scale-up at the new headquarters and manufacturing site.

“Our government is proud to support GIT Coatings as they expand right here in Dartmouth,” said Braedon Clark, Member of Parliament for Sackville—Bedford—Preston, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister Responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. “This new carbon-neutral facility is a powerful example of how Atlantic Canadian innovation is creating good jobs while protecting our oceans. GIT Coatings is proof that local leadership can drive global impact. We’re excited to see what’s next for this homegrown success story.”

The Grand Opening of GIT Coatings’ new Global Headquarters & Flagship Operations was not just a celebration of a facility, but of a vision taking shape, one that positions Atlantic Canada as a hub for clean technology and maritime innovation. As the global shipping industry accelerates its transition toward decarbonization, GIT Coatings stands ready to deliver the solutions that make it possible. From Dartmouth to the world’s busiest trade routes, this new chapter ensures Canada remains at the forefront of sustainable ocean technologies for generations to come.

View the full event video here: https://youtu.be/_-1FEfF33IQ

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