London, United Kingdom | November 3, 2025 – In a significant step towards greater industry collaboration and sustainable maritime operations, IBIA – The International Bunker Industry Association and INTERCARGO – The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners have entered into a reciprocal membership agreement designed to deepen cooperation between the global bunkering community and the dry bulk shipping sector.
This strategic partnership formalises the long-standing relationship between the two organisations and underlines their shared mission to promote safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible maritime operations. By combining their respective areas of expertise – marine fuel supply and dry bulk shipping, IBIA and INTERCARGO aim to accelerate progress on fuel quality, operational safety, and the transition to low and zero-carbon fuels.
Under the terms of the new agreement, both associations will gain mutual access to each other’s technical expertise, working groups, and activities. This will enable closer cooperation in developing industry best practices, fostering knowledge exchange, and ensuring coordinated representation at major international forums such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
By strengthening the bridge between shipowners and the marine fuel supply chain, the partnership will encourage open dialogue, enhance fuel safety standards, and support the industry’s collective transition toward decarbonisation.
Alexander Prokopakis, Executive Director of IBIA, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating:
“We are delighted to welcome INTERCARGO as an IBIA member. Collaboration is vital as the industry moves towards new fuels and technologies, and this partnership ensures our associations work hand in hand to promote safe, sustainable, and practical solutions for the future.”
Echoing these sentiments, Dimitris Monioudis, Chairman of INTERCARGO’s Technical Committee, highlighted the practical value of the agreement for the dry bulk community:
“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.”
The partnership between IBIA and INTERCARGO represents a milestone in cross-sector collaboration at a time when the maritime industry faces mounting pressure to meet global decarbonisation goals. With the IMO targeting net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping by 2050, both organisations recognise the critical need for synergy, innovation, and shared responsibility across all segments of the industry.
By working together, IBIA and INTERCARGO aim to strengthen global efforts to ensure the safe and sustainable use of future fuels, promote standardised bunkering practices, and support regulatory development through informed and unified advocacy.
Both organisations reaffirmed their commitment to continuous dialogue and joint initiatives in support of a cleaner, safer, and more resilient maritime future.
The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) represents and promotes quality dry bulk shipping, bringing together over 350 forward-thinking companies from 37 countries.
The dry bulk sector constitutes the largest segment of global shipping in terms of ship numbers and total deadweight capacity.
Dry bulk carriers account for 43% of the world fleet (by tonnage) and are responsible for approximately 55% of global transport work. Established in 1980 in London, INTERCARGO has held consultative status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) since 1993.
The association provides a platform for shipowners, managers, and operators to discuss and address key issues related to safety, security, environmental protection, and operational excellence. INTERCARGO advocates for its members’ interests at the IMO, the European Union, and other global industry forums—always upholding the principles of free and fair competition.
The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) serves as the global voice of the marine energy supply chain, representing a diverse membership spanning shipowners, fuel suppliers, traders, brokers, surveyors, port authorities, and maritime professionals across more than 70 countries.
Founded in 1993, IBIA is dedicated to promoting transparency, quality, and high standards throughout the marine fuel industry. The association plays a leading role in the industry’s transition to low and zero-carbon fuels, advocating for safe and sustainable energy solutions at the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Through its global network of training programmes, working groups, and industry events, IBIA connects stakeholders across the marine energy ecosystem—driving innovation, safety, and collaboration for the future of maritime fuels.
