On Monday, May 12th, 2025, the Hong Kong Shipowners Association (HKSOA) hosted a Shipping Dialogue in Hong Kong. The event featured Guy Platten, the current Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), and Thomas Kazakos, the Secretary General Elect of the ICS, who were visiting at the invitation of the HKSOA. The dialogue in the JW Marriott Ballroom drew a significant attendance of over 130 key players from Hong Kong’s maritime industry, including ship owners, ship operators, and various sector experts. A luncheon was held following the dialogue to honor the two distinguished international guests, reports XindeMarine.
Issues Faced
During a recent event, the current Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), Guy Platten, and the Secretary General Elect, Thomas Kazakos, engaged in discussions with attendees regarding critical issues facing the maritime community. These issues included the ongoing global decarbonization efforts, particularly in light of the deliberations at the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Marine Environment Protection Committee 83rd session (MEPC 83) held in London from April 7th to 11th. They also addressed the numerous challenges confronting the shipping industry due to recent geopolitical tensions and developments.
In his welcoming address, Mr. Angad Banga JP, Chairman of the Hong Kong Shipowners Association (HKSOA), emphasized Hong Kong’s significant role as a super-connector bridging the East and the West, as well as the gap between regulators and the industry. He stated, “The Hong Kong Shipowners Association has long been a bridge between East and West, championing open dialogue and constructive cooperation across the global maritime community. Over the years, we have built strong partnerships with international institutions like the International Chamber of Shipping to address shared challenges – from decarbonization to seafarer welfare – while advancing policies that benefit the entire shipping industry. Our commitment to international collaboration remains unwavering, as we continue to position Hong Kong as a trusted, globally connected maritime centre.”
Mr. Banga highlighted several instances of collaboration between the HKSOA and the ICS, including the ICS’s decision in 2019, following a suggestion from the HKSOA, to establish its first overseas office outside of London in Hong Kong. He also commended the highly positive response to the inaugural Global Maritime Trade Summit, hosted by the ICS in Hong Kong last November with the support of the Hong Kong SAR Government and the HKSOA.
On behalf of the HKSOA, Mr. Banga expressed deep appreciation for the work of outgoing ICS Secretary General Guy Platten and extended a warm welcome to the incoming Secretary General, Thomas Kazakos. “We are deeply grateful to Guy Platten for his outstanding leadership as Secretary General of the ICS,” Mr. Banga said. “His tireless advocacy, principled voice and global outlook have impacted the industry, including here in Hong Kong. As we welcome Thomas Kazakos into this important role, we extend our warmest congratulations and full support. We look forward to working closely with Thomas to build on the strong foundation laid by Guy and to navigate the future together…”
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Source: Xindemarine
