Building on momentum in 2025
IBIA closed 2024 on a high note, marking significant milestones that reflect the association’s evolving role and its commitment to members and the broader maritime industry. As we look ahead, 2025 promises to build on this momentum with an ambitious agenda and enhanced member engagement.
Our successful Annual Convention in Athens this past November was a testament to IBIA’s growing impact.
It featured the introduction of the European Regional Board – the fifth and final addition to IBIA’s Regional Boards. These boards now provide comprehensive representation across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, ensuring that IBIA’s regional initiatives align with the unique needs and challenges of each area.
The Convention also showcased record-breaking attendance, reinforcing IBIA’s reputation as a hub for collaboration and dialogue within the bunker industry.
This achievement underscores the importance of regional inclusivity in addressing global industry challenges and advancing IBIA’s mission.
As you read these lines, IBIA’s 2025 elections have concluded, and we warmly welcome our newly elected board members.
IBIA’s elections are a cornerstone of our democratic structure, and we encourage all members to participate actively. Your involvement ensures that we maintain a balanced representation of our dynamic and diverse sector, which is crucial for shaping the future of the industry.
2024 was a remarkable year for IBIA. Beyond the success of our Athens Convention, we saw membership growth and record-breaking attendance at our flagship events, including the IBIA Annual Dinner. Additionally, our Chair and Board dedicated considerable effort to updating the association’s byelaws, ensuring they remain relevant and supportive of our evolving objectives.
As we enter 2025, we anticipate an even busier and more productive year. With full-capacity attendance expected at the IBIA Annual Dinner and ambitions for another record-breaking Annual Convention, our calendar is set to be packed with opportunities to connect and collaborate.
Bunkering’s relevance to the shipping industry has never been greater, and IBIA is committed to playing an active role in shaping its future. In 2025, we aim to maintain a strong presence at key industry events, including Singapore Maritime Week and Sea Asia in Singapore, the CMA in Connecticut, the International Bunker Conference in Oslo, FUJCON in UAE, and Hong Kong Maritime Week, among others. These gatherings provide vital platforms for engaging with industry stakeholders and advancing discussions on critical issues such as decarbonisation.
In 2024, we undertook a comprehensive perception audit involving our members and broader stakeholders. This initiative offered valuable insights into our association’s strengths and areas for growth. As a result, we are now examining our future strategy, marketing approach, governance structure, and membership models to ensure we continue providing exceptional value.
One of the exciting developments for 2025 is the introduction of a new members’ portal. This platform is designed to enhance member engagement, streamline communication, and provide easy access to resources and updates, making membership with IBIA more rewarding than ever.
IBIA remains deeply committed to supporting the IMO’s initiatives to decarbonise shipping. As environmental regulations tighten and sustainability becomes a priority, IBIA will continue to provide guidance, education, and advocacy to help our members navigate these transformative changes.
As we embark on another promising year, IBIA’s focus remains steadfast: to serve as a dynamic and inclusive association that meets the needs of our members while addressing the broader challenges of the bunker/marine energy and maritime industries.
With a robust strategy, an expanding global presence, and commitment to decarbonisation, IBIA is well-positioned to drive meaningful progress in 2025 and beyond.
We invite all members to stay engaged, share their perspectives, and join us in making 2025 a year of impactful achievements for the bunker/marine energy industry.
Together, we can continue to strengthen IBIA’s role.
Alexander Prokopakis
IBIA Executive Director
alexander.prokopakis@ibia.net