ERMA TECH GROUP, a future-forward leader in sustainable maritime technologies, acquired the Ultrasonic Antifouling Technology and associated Intellectual Property developed by HASYTEC. 

This strategic acquisition further strengthens ERMA TECH GROUP’s commitment to driving maritime decarbonisation and environmental protection, while reinforcing its position as a trusted provider of advanced, eco-friendly solutions for the global shipping industry. 

With the addition of this pioneering technology, ERMA TECH GROUP integrates Dynamic Biofilm Protection intelligent^® (DBPi^®) into its portfolio of advanced marine decarbonisation solutions.  DBPi^® is a revolutionary AI-powered ultrasonic antifouling solution which prevents the accumulation of marine organisms such as algae and barnacles on the vessel hull. Left untreated, such growth increases hull friction, leading to higher fuel consumption, and additional maintenance requirements. DBPi^(R) uses ultrasonic pulses controlled by AI based algorithms to keep hull surfaces clean from even the earliest stages of biofilm formation, thereby eliminating the need for frequent underwater cleanings or chemical treatments. 

Currently deployed to protect critical ship systems such as propellers, sea chests, and box coolers, DBPi^® continues to evolve, with new applications in development - including a next-generation hull protection solution. By preventing biofouling buildup, the system helps vessels maintain a smoother hull surface, thereby reducing drag. This results in improved energy efficiency, as the engine requires less power to achieve the same speed, meaning lower fuel consumption and reduced CO₂ emissions. DBPi^® has already proven its effectiveness across the commercial shipping, cruise, and offshore sectors, supporting a cleaner and more sustainable maritime industry.  

“This acquisition marks another strategic milestone for the ERMA TECH GROUP,” said Ms Eleni Polychronopoulou, President of the ERMA TECH GROUP. “We are integrating another disruptive technology that reduces emissions, lowers operating costs, and enhances compliance, further strengthening our growth path and reinforcing ERMA TECH GROUP’s position as a key provider of end-to-end sustainable shipping solutions.” 

HASYTEC’s operations will remain in Kiel, Germany, ensuring seamless service and continuity for existing clients. “We are delighted to announce that HASYTEC customers will now benefit from ERMA TECH GROUP’s global network of more than 50 operational locations and a team of 170 service engineers. We are fully committed to leveraging HASYTEC’s innovative technologies and driving their continuous advancement. After all, HASYTEC’s patented ultrasonic antifouling technology is a perfect fit with our DNA and our mission: from saving the oceans to safeguarding the planet.” Ms Polychronopoulou added. 

About ERMA TECH GROUP

ERMA TECH GROUP is a global leader in sustainable maritime technologies, uniting ERMA FIRST, EPE Systems Division, RWO, Ecochlor, METIS, HASYTEC and other affiliated companies and strategic partnerships. With more than 50 years of expertise and presence in 50+ countries, ERMA TECH GROUP delivers award-winning solutions in decarbonisation, water and wastewater, and marine equipment and services, driving a net-zero future and protecting oceans, vessels, and the planet.

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DNV DATE® Centre in Greece celebrates 10 years of supporting the local maritime industry! Launched in 2015 as a satellite for Technical Support, over the past decade, the team based in Piraeus has handled more than 25,000 technical support cases and performed over 11,000 remote surveys, covering topics from class systematics and SOLAS to MARPOL, BWM, Hull, Machinery, and Marine Management Systems.

“The success of the DATE® Centre Greece reflects the strength of our local expertise and the trust we’ve built within the Greek and Cypriot maritime communities,” says George Teriakidis, Regional Manager Southeast Europe, DNV Maritime. “By combining global knowledge with local insight, we’re proud to support our customers with timely, high-quality technical services that help them operate efficiently”.

DNV’s global DATE® network comprises main hubs in Høvik and Hamburg, along with satellite centers in Houston, Singapore, and Greece, providing 24/7 technical support and remote surveys to shipowners and managers worldwide.

“Our DATE® Centre Greece team in Piraeus has consistently demonstrated technical excellence and deep commitment to our customers” said Tijmen Klamer, Head of Technical Support, DNV Maritime. “This milestone is a testament to their expertise, responsiveness, and the trusted relationships they’ve built with our Greek and Cypriot partners. We look forward to continuing to support our customers with smart, efficient solutions – anytime, anywhere.”

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Moore Maritime Index “MMI”, a database that contains operating costs and revenues from more than 1,500 vessels, has been updated and is available with the 2024 data.

The data comes from audited financial statements of ship owning companies and therefore, the results produced by the Index show the “real world” of financial performance of the shipping industry.

The main takeaways for 2024 are:

• In dry bulk carriers, the level of the total operating expenses remained at similar levels compared to 2023. Specifically, it was observed an increase in spares expenses with the only exception being Panamax vessels which showed a decrease of 1%. On the contrary, there was a decrease in the repairs and maintenance expenses for all categories of bulk carriers except for the Panamax vessels. Stores expenses remained stable, apart from a 10% decrease for the Handysize vessels. In terms of revenue, the rates appeared increased in 2024. The categories of Handysize, Handymax and Panamax vessels presented an increase between 3% and 10%, while the Capesize vessels recorded the highest increase of 36%.
• All categories of Tankers reported an increase in the spares expenses. The repairs and maintenance were decreased in comparison to 2023, whereas the Panamax vessels recorded a significant increase of 30%. On the contrary, the lubricants expenses showed an increase between 2% and 18%, whereas for Panamax vessels remained at the same level. In terms of revenue, a contrasting performance was observed for the Panamax vessels relative to the rest categories of Tankers. The daily rates for all categories were decreased, whereas the Panamax vessels registered an increase of 2%.

To access the Moore Maritime Index, please visit https://moore-index.com/

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The Women’s International Shipping & Trading Association (WISTA International) and BIMCO, the global trade association whose members represent 64% of the world’s tonnage, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalise collaboration in promoting diversity, sustainability, and professional excellence across the maritime industry.

Working together, WISTA International and BIMCO aim to address shared industry challenges and create opportunities for professionals throughout the global shipping sector. The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation in key areas including:

• Research and Development: Joint initiatives, studies, and projects relevant to shipping and maritime innovation.
• Information Sharing: Exchange of publications, data, and insights beneficial to the members of both organisations.
• Training and Education: Development of joint training programmes, seminars, and educational initiatives aimed at enhancing professional skills and industry knowledge.

Elpi Petraki, President of WISTA International, said: “We are delighted to align with BIMCO, an organisation that shares our commitment to advancing a sustainable and inclusive maritime industry. In joining forces, we can amplify our impact by promoting knowledge exchange, professional development, and the collaboration that benefits the entire shipping community.”

BIMCO’s mission - to foster standardisation, transparency, and professionalism - complements WISTA International’s goal of driving positive change for inclusivity within the sector. Together, the two associations will develop collaborative initiatives built on shared values and a mutual vision for a resilient and forward-looking maritime industry.

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Stress is one of the biggest triggers for seafarers and it is essential for them to build and maintain mental resilience to deal with crises while onboard, warns leading catering manager MCTC on World Mental Health Day.
Food has a significant role to play in helping seafarers build mental resilience and sending signals to the mind they are in a positive mental headspace, explained MCTC Health and Wellbeing Consultant Nichole Stylianou in the  recent CalmWaves podcast.

MCTC is raising awareness on the subject as industries across the world are coming together today (Friday) to shine a spotlight on mental health for World Mental Health Day with a particular focus on emergencies and catastrophes.

The podcast heard from Founder of J.Z. Light Bulb Therapy, Zeina Kreichaty who said with 70% of people suffering from stress, mental resilience is crucial to ensure people have the right tools to deal with issues as and when they arise.

 “Mental resilience is our anchor. When you have mental resilience you bounce back very quickly. We are not born with mental resilience – it is like a muscle you have to work on and practice constantly. We develop it with time, wisdom, experience and the right tools.”

She added that when people are going through a period of stress, they will send messages to the brain like ‘I can’t cope’ or ‘I feel trapped’. This triggers the body to respond with heightened anxiety, driven by its main goal of keeping the person safe. However, by consciously reframing the mind, one can introduce positive imagery that helps calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety.

Mrs Stylianou explained how the body responds in a similar way to every stressful event, triggering the release of stress hormones regardless of the source of the stress.

“The digestive system is affected almost instantly when the body's "fight-or-flight" response is activated, as stress redirects energy away from digestion to prioritise survival. The body is releasing a lot of hormones to help us respond and find solutions. While this response is meant to protect us, it can disrupt the digestive system, lower immune function, and increase sensitivity to chronic illnesses when sustained over time,” she said.

“The food we eat can help us deliver the right messages to our brain. It is a way to drive ourselves in giving the body positive feelings. A balanced diet rich in nutrients helps in releasing positive feelgood hormones, like serotonin.’

MCTC runs a programme called MyBalance which is committed to enhancing the health, morale, and productivity of crew, ultimately contributing to safer and more efficient operations. Through a holistic approach it targets the mind, body and soul with educational programmes, webinars and seminars that target the mind.

For the body MCTC offers personalised nutrition plans, fitness challenges, and promotion of physical activity. The initiative targets the soul with stress management and community building.
MCTC’s team of in-house dietician-nutritionists offer guidance, assess individual health status, and sets achievable goals to empower crew members in making lasting, positive changes. Through tailored support and practical, healthy alternatives, it aims to enhance their overall quality of life, both onboard and at home with their families.

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The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) Greek Branch has completed the selection process for the Navatrade S.A. Scholarships, established in memory of the company’s founder, George Sklavounos. Five young professionals have been selected to receive a partial scholarship each to attend the ICS Professional Maritime Programme for the academic year 2025–26.

The five scholars are Mr. Georgios Karaiskos, Mr. Stylianos Kotsonis, Mr. Antonis Manousos, Mr. Marios Ntelis, and Ms. Antigone Vasilaki, who have now officially commenced their studies in the ICS Professional Maritime Programme, leading to the ICS Membership, the internationally recognized maritime qualification. The scholarship is an important opportunity for the recipients to gain practical knowledge on commercia maritime topics, i.e. chartering, operations, S&P, shipping law, etc.

To mark the beginning of this important educational journey, a special gathering was held on Monday, 6 October, at the ICS Greek Branch premises in Piraeus. The event brought together the new scholars, Ms. Kelly Sklavounos of Navatrade S.A., Ms. Natalia Margioli, FICS, Managing Director of the HMC/ICS Greek Branch, and Ms. Stavroula Tape, FICS, Αcademic Director of the HMC/ICS Greek Branch, creating a warm and inspiring atmosphere. It was a valuable opportunity for the scholars to meet each other, engage with Navatrade, and celebrate their achievement.

With 44 years of presence in the dry bulk chartering sector, Navatrade S.A. remains committed to supporting the next generation of maritime professionals. These scholarships serve as a tribute to George Sklavounos, a charismatic businessman who was passionate about passing on his knowledge to the young generation.

The ICS Greek Branch expresses its sincere appreciation to Navatrade S.A. and to our Member, Kelly Sklavounos, for this meaningful initiative to support the ICS mission and warmly congratulates the five scholarship recipients. Such collaborations strengthen the ties between ICS and the maritime community, establishing the ICS as a reference point for professional maritime education and a key institution promoting professionalism in the shipping industry.

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Stefanos Papandreou & Theano Kalapotharakou co-publishers of ELNAVI  exclusively report from Limassol, Cyprus

 
The challenge of navigating global turbulences in shipping involves strategies and concepts related to supply chain robustness, operational flexibility, and risk management.

All above issues will be discussed from Monday 6 until Wednesday 8 of October in Maritime Cyprus 2025 conference in Limassol Cyprus.

In his welcome address by the Conference Chairman, Dr. Stelios D. Himonas, Conference Chairman, Permanent Secretary SHIPPING DEPUTY MINISTRY told that he is confident the outcome of the forum will be a testament to the importance of Cyprus Shipping Registry for the world maritime industry. As he said this year’s conference aims to unlock the future of shipping dealing with the challenges of digital transformation, geopolitical developments and energy transition.

H.E. Mr. Nikos Christodoulides, President of the Republic of Cyprus in his speech pointed out that shipping is one of the greatest drivers of Cyprus’ economy. He expressed his commitment to the continuous enhancement of the Cyprus’ Shipping Deputy Ministry services and a more autonomous E.U. where shipping can play an important role to ensure Europe’s economy competitiveness. The establishment of Cyprus as an attractive and competitive cruise destination is another major target that can attract investors and tourists from all around the globe.

In her address, Ms. Marina Hadjimanolis, Shipping Deputy Minister to the President of the Republic of Cyprus shipping focused on Cyprus’ 60 - year experience as a sovereign flag state, competitiveness and innovation of Cyprus maritime industry.

She also put emphasis to the talented and dedicated workforce and the professionalism of all the members of the Cyprus’ maritime sector.

H.E. Mr. Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary-General, International Maritime Organization in his speech prided Cyprus for the compliance of IMO instruments and as an active member in negotiations on the future of maritime safety and environmental agenda. He also said that we need to the way that we treat people and increase awareness of the mental health. We also have to continue to regulate the technological development and regarding decarbonisation of the maritime industry we need to maintain a strong sense of responsibility for a sustainable and effective future.

In his address, H.E. Mr. Apostolos Tzitzikostas, EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism remarked that Cyprus is a symbol of quality and trust and that the future of Europe is connected with Cyprus’ prosperity in shipping.

He added that we have to make European economy more competitive, resilient and sustainable closing the innovation gap with U.S. and China and aligning decarbonisation with IMO guidelines. The current legislation provides predictability boosting the development of alternative fuels and operational measures for the sustainability of the sector. In any case EU supports the net zero framework of the IMO ensuring that all solutions must be pragmatic efficient based on the common sense.

He finally referred to the need of strengthening European shipbuilding sector with the construction of clean ships and the upgrading of port facilities.

The president of the election committee announced the winner of the Cyprus Maritime Award 2025 and after careful consideration the committee decided to give two award to Dr. John Coustas chairman of Danaos Shipping who is one of the most loyal supporter of the Cyprus registry as Danaos has established offices in Cyprus and registered a great number of vessels in the registry and the second award went to MSC Shipmanagement a company that considerably increased its activities in Limassol with substantial contribution in the country’s economy. As Dr. Coustas said the company’s history in Cyprus goes to 1972 when Danaos registered its first ship in Famagustas’ ship Registry and recognised that today Cyprus is an example of a continuous excellence and a flexible partner that reduces the bureaucracy and adopting digital transformation.

A Ministerial Shipping Dialogue took place at the Cyprus Maritime conference that referred to the challenges of shipping regarding digital transformation, decarbonisation, collaboration, adoption of realistic strategies, re-skilling of seafarers, the need of collaboration and go forward with realistic strategies.
The next panel examined the ways of navigating disruption and to steer the Shipping Industry through Global Turbulences.
Moderator was Mr. Thomas A. Kazakos, Secretary General International Chamber of Shipping.

Panellists were Mr. Themis Papadopoulos Ex-Vice Chairman International Chamber of Shipping, Ms. Karin Orsel President ECSA, Ms. Ioanna Procopiou President Designate BIMCO, Mr. Joe Kramek President & CEO World Shipping Council.

The speakers referred to the adoption of a holistic approach in the net zero strategy taking into account operational measures and not only the development of green fuels. They added that while the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has provided a directional "Net-Zero Framework" (NZF), the clarity needed to unlock the trillion-plus investment gap remains highly fragmented. Regarding digitalisation is helpful to decarbonise our industry however we have to train and up-skill a great number of seafarers to ensure the smooth transition to a new sustainable future.

The Shipowners’ Insights on Industry Evolution were presented by prominent panellists: Mr. George Procopiou Chairman Dynacom Tankers Management Ltd, Mr. Thanasis Martinos Managing Director Eastern Mediterranean Maritime Limited, Mr. Andreas Hadjiyiannis CEO, Cyprus Sea Lines/Hellenic Tankers President, Cyprus Union of Shipowners, Dr. John Coustas President & CEO Danaos Corporation, Ms. Semiramis Paliou CEO Diana Shipping Inc. The discussion was moderated by Mr. George Mouskas President, Olympia Ocean Carriers Ltd, Vice President, Cyprus Union of Shipowners.

Mr. Prokopiou reminded that eight years ago had suggested that the most efficient measure to reduce air emissions was to adopt the minimum speed. He also remarked that the best way to go forward is to pause the ambitious plans for alternative fuels and concentrate on carbon capture systems.

Mr Hadjiyiannis admitted that through ETS there was a considerable improvement in the reduction of air emissions however the people must realise that the taxation on carbon fuels will not hurt shipping but the final consumer.

Mrs Paliou focused on the lack of clarity on how the money will be spent that will be collected by the taxation of carbon fuels.

Dr. John Coustas pointed out that the shipping policies are implemented without taking account the views and needs of the shipping industry. We are extremely concerned that the money will be invested in the development of clean fuels.

Mr. Martinos commented on the excessive cost of trading in the European waters and that remarkable increase will be charged to the final consumer.

All speakers agreed that it’s a difficult decision to order a ship and the promising alternative fuel is methanol as China has the ability to scale up the production of this particular fuel.

After all the energy transition will take much more time than it is expected and for sure 2050 is an unrealistic date for net zero framework.

 
2ND DAY

A deep dive into the P&I Market Latest Developments and Update about the Renewal Season 2026 was delivered by a very experienced and well-respected panel which was moderated by Mr. Filippo Fabbri, CEO Lockton P.L. Ferrari with panellists: Mr. Jonathan Andrews, CEO Steamship Mutual, Mr. Rolf Thore Roppestad CEO Gard AS, Mr. Paul Jennings Managing Director NorthStandard, Mr. Andrew Taylor CEO UK P&I Club
The next discussion panel elaborated on the topic: New Era of Shipowners…Unlocking the Future which moderated by Mr. Nicolas Bornozis Founder & CEO Capital Link, Inc. The following Panellists discussed the above topic: Mr. Filippos Efstathiou CEO Efnav Company referred to his company’s 60-year legacy in the dry bulk sector and he explained his company’s growth strategy. He explained that his company follows a conservative approach waiting for the final opportunities become clearer proving the commercial strength of our existing fleet. Mr. Efstathiou also commented that for smaller fleets specialisation maximises strength in the contrary for very large fleet diversification is a necessary strategy to ensure the efficiency of the fleet., Mr. John A. Xylas President & CEO Ariston Navigation Corp. stated that forthcoming IMO MEPC will set a net zero framework which is better than a failure to agree which will mean that regional bodies like the EU may implement their own rules risking IMO’s authority and climate goals. Regarding his company’s renewal strategy, he said that with so much uncertainty in the dual fuel ships his company has adopted a strategy of upgrading the existing fleet., Capt. Stephanos E. Angelakos CEO Angelakos (Hellas) S.A referred to the profile of his company’s fleet which is consisted by a mixed fleet of bulk carriers and tankers and pointed out that 90% of the company’s fleet is registered in the Cyprus Registry. Today the company aims to create a high standard fleet upgrading the efficiency of the managed ships and reducing further the air emissions and the age profile. Mr. Hajioannou CEO, Chairman & Director, Safe Bulkers Vice President told that we are supporting what is IMO doing but we don’t support unilateral regulation and regional rules. Finally, all speakers congratulated the Cyprus’ maritime administration for its efficient operations, 24/7 registration and support services, strong reputation and high standards.
The last panel of the day presented the Charterers’ Outlook examining the challenges of Navigating Markets, Risks, and Opportunities.

The panel was moderated by Mr. Polys V. Hajioannou CEO, Chairman & Director, Safe Bulkers Vice President, Cyprus Union of Shipowners with panellists: Mr. Joe Windscheffel Director, Global Panamax Trading Manager Cargill Ocean Transportation, Mr. Benjamin Patchell Global Head of Panamax Trading Mercuria Energy Trading SA, Mr. Mark Thompson Senior Freight Trader Olam Agri. The speakers’ concerns were centred on the financial and operational burdens from shifting regulations and geopolitical conflicts.
For the EU ETS, the primary worry is the significant increase in operational costs due to purchasing emission allowances, which are largely passed on from owners to charterers. This requires complex contractual adjustments and data exchange.

Regarding the IMO Net Zero Framework, concerns include the regulatory uncertainty from a lack of global alignment (especially with US opposition), which could create a patchwork of regional rules and disrupt investment in green fuels. They also worry about the practicality and cost of new, unproven technologies.
Finally, proposed US Tariffs on Chinese-built ships present a major concern over immediate and potentially millions-of-dollars per port call cost absorption, as new clauses are making charterers responsible. This also threatens to create a two-tiered charter market and disrupt US trade routes.

John Xylas referred to DryBMS an optional rating system which is used to calculate a total score to measure their progress towards operational efficiency and HSQE excellence.

DryBMS was developed by INTERCARGO and RightShip, with input from experts and stakeholders across the sector, as an industry tool to raise standards and best practices across safety, security, environmental performance, and social welfare in the dry shipping sector. INTERCARGO and RightShip have worked closely to establish the DBCE to further evolve and disseminate the DryBMS framework.

Aristides Pittas Eurobulk’s Chairman in his own intervention remarked that environmental regulations pose considerable operational costs to shipowners and charterers and called charterers to get involved more actively in environmental projects aiming to improve the ships’ efficiency.

 
3RD Day

The 3rd day of the conference opened by H.E. Mr. Costas Kadis, European Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans who addressed the audience.

Following the commissioner’s message, a panel of speakers answered the question: Is the Shipping Industry Ready for Climate Resilience?

The debate was Moderated by Dr. Phillip Belcher Marine Director INTERTANKO

Panellists: Mr. Gavin Allwright Secretary General IWSA, Ms Manuela Tomassini Head of Sustainability and Technical Assistance EMSA, Mr. Jan Othman Vice President, Project Services, Marine Wärtsilä.

The speakers told that the shipping industry is in a critical transitional phase, demonstrating mixed readiness for comprehensive climate resilience. While there is strong, internationally mandated movement toward emissions mitigation (decarbonization), the development and implementation of climate change adaptation measures are generally less mature, though recognized as crucial.

The next topic: Safeguarding Shipowners in a Rapidly Changing Environment was discussed by the following panellists: Mr. Mark O’ Neil President & CEO Columbia Group, Mr. Sebastian von Hardenberg CEO Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement (BSM), Mr. Dieter Rohdenburg CEO InterMaritime Shipmanagement Ltd, Mr. Jan Meyering Joint Managing Director Marlow Navigation Co. Ltd. The debate was moderated by Mr. Sean Moloney CEO Elaborate Communications. Safeguarding shipowners requires immediate action on dual fronts. Financial risks from stringent emission regulations (IMO 2050 targets, EU ETS) demand investment in green fuels and technology. Concurrently, climate adaptation strategies—protecting the ships and optimizing routes against extreme weather—are crucial for maintaining operational resilience and insuring against physical climate risks.

Moderated by Ms. Despina Panayiotou Theodosiou Co-CEO Tototheo Global a panel of prominent speakers presented the Technology’s Impact on Shipping and Seafarers.

Panellists were Mr. Stephen Cotton General Secretary International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), Ms. Fotini Ioannidou Director, Waterborne Transport European Commission, Ms. Elpi Petraki President WISTA International, Mr. Prabhat Jha Group Managing Director & CEO MSC Shipmanagement Ltd. The speakers elaborated on the issues of connectivity, automation, digitalisation and agreed that the new technology shouldn’t be faced as a threat but as an opportunity to increase efficiency, well-being, performance and safety at sea. They also discussed how the technology could be beneficial for seafarers in their daily life improving the quality of their work and communication with their families. Director of EC remarked that the human approach should be paramount and in view of this matter EU will introduce the single window that aims at less fatigue, time saving and attracting young generation.
The EU Single Window (officially the European Maritime Single Window environment - EMSWe) is an EU regulation that establishes a common, interoperable digital system for shipping information reporting to Member State authorities.

Mr. Konstantinos Petropoulos General Manager, Head of Shipping and Structured Finance Piraeus Bank described the latest developments, Trends, Risks, and Opportunities Ahead in ship finance which can be summarised in the following points:

-Access to finance remains strong for well positioned shipowners,

-Diversified financing sources alongside to the traditional bans,

-Regulatory tightening has driven many European banks out of shipping, -Greek banks have filled the gap with competitive terms and pricing,

-Appetite for further credit expansion remains robust,

-Challenging market conditions necessitate a cautious lending approach.

Aiming at the understanding of market dynamics in the shipfinancing landscape the last panel of speakers discussed the importance of funding Strategies for the Next Era of Shipping.

Moderator was Mr. Alexandros Damianidis Partner, Assets & Structured Finance Group Watson Farley & Williams.
The following distinguished panellists shared their own experiences and views: Mr. Aristides Pittas Chairman & CEO Euroseas Ltd and Eurodry Ltd, Mr. Atef Abou Merhi Managing Director Pelagic Partners, Ms. Christina Margelou General Manager, Head of Shipping Eurobank S.A., Dr. Loukas N. Barmparis President Safe Bulkers, Inc.
The speakers agreed that financing is available for well established companies however banks are over regulated allocating their capital more wisely. The speakers elaborated on ESG criteria for financing new investments and KPIs towards the environmental targets of IMO and E.U. At the moment these requirements are flexible and examined by case.

All speakers agreed that shipping should follow other industries in applying solutions of decarbonisation because of its nature of business as performs in a harsh sea condition and a volatile environment.

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Within the framework of the International Conference "Maritime Cyprus 2025" The electoral General Assembly of the Cyprus Shipowners' Association was held in α friendly atmosphere in Limassol.

During the General Assembly for the appointment of the new Board of Directors, the baton of President from Mr. Andreas Hadjiyiannis, was taken by Mr. Polys V. Hajioannou.

The Deputy Minister of Shipping, Mrs. Hadjimanolis, also attended the Electoral Assembly, who congratulated the elected officials and assured them once again that the government of Nikos Christodoulidis is on the side of the industry, taking seriously into account the suggestions and problems of the shipping community.

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With the initiative of Aries Shipping recently a high-level event was organised at its headquarters in Glyfada celebrating the deepening trade and shipping ties between Greece and Vietnam. The event, hosted by Capt. Gabriel Petridis, Managing Director of Aries Shipping, which has a strategic partnership with the Vietnam Maritime Corporation (VIMC), welcomed a distinguished Vietnamese delegation led by the Deputy President of the Vietnamese Parliament.

Capt. Petridis highlighted the unparalleled competitive advantage of Greek shipowners that control the world's largest commercial and tramp fleet. He emphasized that as China expands its reach across transport and logistics, Vietnam is uniquely positioned to compete by leveraging its rich resources and capable human workforce.

The core of the discussion centered on a bold proposal: Greece can share its vast shipping expertise to help Vietnam develop a sustainable and efficient national fleet. This initiative would allow Vietnam to become a more active participant in global sea commerce, ultimately securing its own energy and food sufficiency. An added benefit would be the creation of thousands of jobs and a boost to the country’s shipbuilding industry, as new vessels would be constructed in Vietnamese shipyards.

To realize this ambitious project, Capt. Petridis stressed the critical need to persuade Vietnamese banks to provide the necessary capital. He argued that this strategy of achieving energy autonomy and upgrading the nation's shipbuilding capacity would significantly improve Vietnam's geopolitical standing and security level.

The Deputy President of the Vietnamese Parliament expressed his enthusiasm for the proposal, affirming his complete understanding of the need to mobilize all resources for the project. He committed to communicating the need for a more sophisticated maritime economy to the head of the Vietnamese government. The event concluded with a mutual agreement to define the next steps for a more active cooperation, ensuring mutual benefit for both nations.

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The 2025 WISTA AGM and Conference will be the biggest WISTA International event to date, bringing together over 400 maritime professionals from around the world.

This year’s organisers – WISTA Spain - report a sold-out event with just over two weeks to go until doors open at the World Trade Center in the vibrant Spanish port city of Barcelona. Taking place from 22 - 24 October and under the theme Powering the Future of Shipping and Trade: Global Energy in Challenging Times, proceedings will focus on some key issues and challenges facing global logistics, including decarbonization, electrification, and emerging technologies.

Elpi Petraki, President of WISTA International, said: “The scale of this year’s WISTA conference is a powerful signal of our continuing momentum in creating a more sustainable and inclusive maritime future. The event will not only address pressing industry challenges, but it will provide an opportunity for attendees to collaborate, share ideas and offer meaningful input, to underline the growing role of women in shaping the shipping, trading and logistics sectors.”

Conference attendees will hear from a stellar line-up of industry experts, with highlights including a ‘fireside chat’ with Arsenio Domínguez, Secretary General of the International Maritime Organization and Dorothea Ioannou, CEO of the American P&I Club.  Attractions also include a high-impact roundtable on Decarbonisation: Impacts on Shipping, Cruise, and Energy Industries, and a timely discussion on Shore Power and Port Electrification - chaired by Isabelle Ryckbost, Secretary General of the European Sea Ports Organisation.
Meanwhile, Marta Prado Larburu, CEO of INCOTRANS and DS4T will lead a discussion on global trade, before Ann Fenech, Partner and Head of the Marine Litigation Department, Fenech & Fenech Advocates, examines the importance to international trade of the Convention of International Effects of the Judicial Sale of Ships. 
Rosana Velasco, President of WISTA Spain, said: “It is a great honour for WISTA Spain to host this prestigious international event. We look forward to welcoming members of the global maritime community, as well as representatives from the Spanish government and maritime authorities to Barcelona in November. The WISTA International Conference is a unique opportunity to develop as professionals, exchange knowledge and create networks that can help careers flourish, change minds and strengthen the maritime industry.”

Download the full agenda here: https://wistabarcelona2025.com/detailed-program/

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