Columbia Plaza in Limassol hosted the debate “Shipping through times of turbulence and innovation,” organized by Cyprus Shipping News (CSN). The event gathered senior industry figures to explore the dual forces reshaping the shipping sector: geopolitical shifts and the transition toward a greener, increasingly digital future.
Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis addressed attendees, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the maritime industry. Following her remarks, Andreas Neophytou, president of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC), delivered a keynote speech emphasizing the resilience and strategic importance of the Cyprus maritime cluster.
The initial part of the discussion, moderated by Vasilis Mouyis of Doric Shipbrokers, centered on the geopolitical reconfiguration of global trade. Panelists examined the rise of U.S. protectionism and its re-industrialization agenda, noting that tariffs and trade disputes are increasingly utilized as instruments of national security. These developments are prompting significant shifts in global trade patterns.
While the term “de-globalisation” often dominates public discourse, the conversation revealed a more nuanced reality. Trade routes are evolving through reshoring, nearshoring, and friendshoring. However, the overall volume and value of traded goods remain closely aligned with global GDP growth.
The panel also addressed international flashpoints, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and tensions in the Middle East, particularly concerning Iran and the potential disruptions to chokepoints in the Arabian Gulf and the Red Sea.
Additionally, the depreciation of the U.S. dollar over the past 15 months was discussed in relation to its supportive impact on trade activity, even as its status as a reserve currency shows signs of gradual shifts.
Shifting focus to decarbonization, participants reviewed the EU ETS and FuelEU Maritime regulations, alongside the International Maritime Organization‘s (IMO) ambitious 2050 net-zero targets. The recent decision to postpone the adoption of the Net-Zero Framework by one year was largely welcomed, as it allows for further refinement to ensure the transition remains both technically and economically viable.
Technical aspects were also on the agenda, including the current relevance of EEDI, EEXI, and CII in ship design and operations. With approximately 20% of the global fleet expected to be alternative-fuel ready by 2030, the panel emphasized energy-saving technologies, including propeller ducts, wind-assistance systems, and the increasing potential of carbon capture.
The debate concluded with a discussion on digitalization and artificial intelligence. As automation becomes more integrated into shipping strategies, speakers highlighted that organizational culture onshore and crew competencies at sea present significant challenges. They agreed that the integration of AI is not solely a technical issue but also a human one, requiring adaptation across the sector.
The panel featured insights from industry leaders, including Eugen Adami of Mastermind Shipmanagement, Anna Koukkides-Procopiou of the POLITIA think tank, Andreas Chrysostomou of the Clean Shipping Alliance, and Eberhard Koch of Österreichischer Lloyd Shipping. Other notable participants included Erwin Derlagen of Intermaritime Shipmanagement, Christina Orfanidou of Columbia Group, Saroj Kumar of MSC Shipmanagement, and Nicholas Rich of Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement.
The discussion highlighted the complexities facing the maritime sector as it navigates geopolitical uncertainties and technological advancements. As the industry moves toward a greener and more digital future, collaboration and innovative thinking will be essential for adapting to these transformative challenges.
Cyprus Shipping News | Cyprus Shipping Chamber | Maritime Impressions
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