IBIA Milestones

Milestones of IBIA

Since its formation in 1992, IBIA has played a leading role in bringing together the global bunker and marine fuels community. From establishing an international industry forum and pioneering training programmes to engaging directly with the IMO on key regulatory developments, IBIA has continually evolved alongside the maritime industry.

Explore the milestones that have shaped IBIA’s journey and its growing role in supporting a safe, sustainable and evolving marine energy sector.

1992

IBIA – The International Bunker Industry Association is formed to provide an international forum representing all sectors of the bunker industry.
1993

IBIA is formally incorporated in the UK as an Established Limited Company with Doug Barrow as first Chairman. First IBIA Annual Convention held in Orlando.
1995

First IBIA Annual Dinner held in London, now one of the industry’s largest networking events.
1996

First ever One Day Basic Bunker Course.
1998

The Education Working Group received the BunkerNews award in recognition of its contribution to the bunker industry.
2005

IBIA gains NGO Consultative Status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), giving the association direct participation in key maritime regulatory discussions.
2006

IBIA’s first submission to the IMO Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) – Document MSC 82/8/1 concerning Maritime Safety Data Sheets.
2010

IBIA Asia is formally incorporated with offices in Singapore.
2014

IBIA celebrates 21 years.
2016

First IBIA Asia Annual Dinner held in Singapore.

IBIA served on the Steering Committee for the 2016 IMO Fuel Oil Availability Study, which was treated as the expert group under MARPOL Annex VI. The group assessed whether enough compliant fuel would be available for the 0.50% sulphur limit. Based on the Study, MEPC 70 (October 2016) approved the findings. It confirmed 1 January 2020 as the implementation date for the global sulphur cap.
2020

During the COVID-19 pandemic, IBIA launches virtual events, expands online training programmes, and holds its first virtual Annual Convention.
2021

Africa Regional Board established.
2022

Americas Regional Board launched.
2023

IBIA celebrates its 30th Anniversary, reflecting on three decades of representing the global marine fuels sector.

IBIA submits document PPR 10/14 related to Bunker Delivery Note (BDN).

Middle East Regional Board launched.
2024

Annual Convention in Athens becomes the association’s largest convention to date, attracting delegates from 30 countries.

European Regional Board launched.
2025

IBIA launches a new brand identity, reflecting its shift from traditional bunker fuels to the full marine energy supply chain.