INTERCARGO gathered shipowners, charterers, insurers, and service providers in Athens on March 31 to tackle the rise of ship-to-ship (STS) transfers in dry bulk shipping. As larger vessels and limited port infrastructure drive offshore cargo movement, the industry seeks a unified approach to ensure safe and efficient STS operations.
The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) has raised concerns over escalating security issues in the Gulf waters and the Strait of Hormuz. Emphasizing the safety of seafarers, INTERCARGO convened an emergency briefing on March 11, addressing recent attacks on vessels that resulted in tragic fatalities and expressing condolences to affected families.
Intercargo’s recent report reveals a decade of improved safety for bulk carriers, yet challenges remain, particularly in the Red Sea. Between 2015 and 2024, 20 significant losses resulted in 89 fatalities, largely due to operational failures. Recent drone and rocket attacks on vessels highlight the pressing need for enhanced maritime security.
Intercargo has praised the International Labor Organization for recognizing seafarers as essential workers under the Maritime Labor Convention. This landmark decision aims to enhance seafarers’ rights, ensuring fair treatment and access to vital resources. Chairman John Xylas highlights the importance of this acknowledgment in addressing challenges faced during the Covid-19 pandemic.
INTERCARGO is pushing for practical measures in the IMO’s climate negotiations, emphasizing the importance of simplicity and predictability. They advocate for a clear carbon price and realistic timelines for implementation. With a focus on balancing environmental goals with operational efficiency, INTERCARGO stresses the need for solutions that benefit both the environment and the shipping industry.
Nearly three years after a tragic incident resulting in the deaths of three stevedores, the UK’s MAIB calls for improved training and safety regulations for enclosed space management. The report highlights the need for enhanced training and emergency drills for shore workers and stevedores to prevent future fatalities in the maritime industry.
INTERCARGO is urging the IMO to review the Carbon Intensity Indicator system before MEPC 82, pointing out flaws in the current ratings. Their analysis, involving over 5,600 bulk carriers, highlights issues like idle time affecting ratings. This push for adjustments reflects the industry’s commitment to reducing emissions and calls for more effective environmental regulations.
A new report by INTERCARGO shows a decade-long trend of safety improvements in dry cargo shipping, despite a 20% increase in tonnage. The annual Accident report monitors vessel losses and fatalities, with the latest findings revealing a significant decline in ship losses despite fleet growth. Safety measures and regulatory compliance are credited for this progress.
