IBIA to host reception preceding Posidonia in partnership with SA Embassy
IBIA will host a reception on Sunday, 31 May, at the Official Residence of the South African Embassy in Athens, bringing together members of the global bunker industry during Posidonia week. The event is expected to provide a valuable opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, meet new contacts, and further strengthen relationships across the shipping and marine energy sectors.
Ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps are also expected to attend, reflecting the international nature of both the event and the industry it represents.
The reception is being supported by Scandi Trading, Agataz, Coral, Eleven Energy and Flex Commodities.
Adrian Tolson, Chair, IBIA said: “We are firmly committed to expanding IBIA’s presence across the key decision-makers shaping the future of the marine energy sector. It is through the active involvement of our members and the strength of our collaboration that this industry can truly influence its direction of growth. With bunkering playing an increasingly central role in the future of shipping, it is important for IBIA to have a strong presence at Posidonia, one of the industry’s leading global gatherings. I would also like to extend my sincere thanks to the Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa for her warm hospitality, and for kindly hosting this upcoming gathering.”
Dr Lindiwe Msengana-Ndlela, Ambassador of South Africa to the Hellenic Republic said: “South Africa rests between major ocean routes, the Indian and the Atlantic Oceans, as well as the South Sea routes to the Antarctic. Maximizing our strategic location, South Africa has been building a diverse and investor friendly maritime economy, with priority investments in port logistics, energy, shipbuilding, shipping, and renewable energy sectors. We value the partnership that our Embassy in Athens has established with IBIA, through the Chair, Adrian Tolson and look forward to hosting the 2026 Posidonia Reception in the gardens of South Africa’s Official Residence.”
About IBIA
IBIA – The International Bunker Industry Association is the voice of the global marine energy value chain, representing a diverse membership of fuel suppliers, traders, shipowners, brokers, surveyors, port authorities, and maritime professionals across more than 70 countries. Established in 1993, IBIA promotes transparency, quality, and high standards in marine fuel operations and supports the industry’s transition to low and zero-carbon fuels. Through advocacy at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and its global network of training, events, and working groups, IBIA connects the industry to drive safe, sustainable, and practical solutions for the future of marine energy.
About the Embassy of South Africa on Maritime
The Embassy of South Africa aims to advance and promote collaboration between Greece’s Maritime Sector and the South African maritime industry focusing on maritime higher education and training, Cadetship and employment, Research and innovation, Maritime administration, Marine manufacturing, Shipping decarbonisation, and new business development.
Media enquiries:
Elena Wilson
Marketing & Business Development Lead elena.wilson@ibia.net
+44 7975895203