INTERCARGO, the International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners, convened last week in Guangzhou for its semi-annual meetings, the first time the Association has held such an event in China.

The meetings, hosted by COSCO Shipping Bulk, brought together members from across the globe for two days of dialogue and decision-making. Senior representatives gathered to discuss pressing issues the dry bulk sector is facing, including the evolving regulatory landscape, operational performance, and the industry’s sustainability.

Particular focus was given to greenhouse gas emissions and the implications of recent developments at the IMO, along with the European Union’s emissions trading regime and FuelEU framework. Members also examined operational safety, digitalization, cyber risks, terminal operations, and the growing complexity of ship-recycling requirements. Throughout the meetings, there was strong engagement with INTERCARGO’s strategic initiatives, including the Dry Bulk Management Standard (DryBMS) administered by the Dry Bulk Centre of Excellence, and the work of the Association’s Quality Panels focusing on vetting and port compliance issues.

While there was reaffirmed support for the IMO’s environmental goals and path to net zero, the need for pragmatic application of regulations remained a key theme.

Speaking after the meetings, INTERCARGO Chairman John Xylas said: “Our meetings in Guangzhou have taken place at a time of great complexity for dry bulk shipping. Sustainability, environmental compliance, digitalization and safety remain at the forefront of our agenda. These discussions provided an essential forum for members to share knowledge, align on priorities and reinforce our collaborative approach.”

The Association also confirmed a number of admissions of new members, as it continues to grow, and announced that its next meeting will take place in Athens from 2 to 4 November 2025.