Greece’s shipping tycoons lead the world in most categories in the sector that saw industry leaders from than 30 countries come together in Athens to talk about global rules and threats, including attacks.
Government leaders also attended the Shaping the Future of Shipping Summit, co-hosted by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), and the Union of Greek Shipowners (UGS).
More than 350 senior delegates, including ministers, regulators, and chief executives from the global maritime and energy sectors, attended talks centered on geopolitical uncertainty and the need to recruit more seafarers.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis appeared via a video message, alongside ministerial representatives from China, Egypt, Malta, Cyprus, and the European Commission. International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez also delivered remarks remotely.
“Only through teamwork will we ensure the future of shipping,” said Greek Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Vassilis Kikilias. “Shipping needs global rules and the level playing field it deserves,” he added.
The delegates talked about the impact of strategic competition, unilateral trade measures, and divergent climate policies on global shipping and said there was a need to maintain open markets and regulations to protect supply chain resilience.
ICS Chairman Emanuele Grimaldi noted, “Geopolitical upheaval, be it through armed conflict, strategic competition, or growing regulatory divergence, is no longer a distant backdrop. It is a force that is reshaping our operating environment in real time. And amidst this uncertainty, the expectations on shipping are undiminished,” said Kathimerini.
UGS President Melina Travlos pointed to the critical role of Greek shipping in global trade and called for stronger collaboration between industry and policymakers. “Collaboration is the key to adopting and implementing pragmatic solutions,” she said. “Let us continue to lead – united – in vision, responsibility, and unwavering commitment to the sustainable future of global shipping.”