IBIA announces ambitious 2015 programme

The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) has announced its biggest ever annual programme of international events. The 2015 programme includes regional forums, dinners, award ceremonies, training courses and a convention taking place in 11 different cities in Europe, South America, Africa, the Middle East and Asia. The programme contains a mixture of member only and open-to-all events.

Additionally IBIA will be participating in two IMO working groups looking at fuel quality and fuel availability. Earlier this year In October the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) 67 agreed to establish a correspondence group to develop draft guidance for assuring the quality of fuel oil delivered for use on board ships, and to consider the adequacy of the current legal framework in MARPOL Annex VI for assuring the quality of bunkers.

IBIA chief executive Peter Hall said:

“This is our most ambitious programme ever and builds on 25 years of experience. Our aim is to help improve standards across the marine fuels industry and support our members. These events and committees are all part of this drive. We’re running high level and basic training courses to ensure best practice; we’re deeply involved in developing new standards at IMO; we’re holding numerous dinners and social events around the world bringing buyers and sellers of marine fuel together and we are helping the industry get up to speed on the latest issues at our convention and forums.”

He added:

“Our annual dinner in London is of course our most popular event. Last year 1127 industry professionals attended our dinner at the Grovesnor House Hotel. We’re looking to break this record in 2015 and will be holding the dinner at the Park Plaza Westminster which can hold even more guests.”

Founded in 1989, IBIA provides a range of services to companies and individuals working in the marine fuels sector. It holds a consultative status at the International Maritime Organization and provides a vital role in helping to shape legislation, ensuring that the views of the users and suppliers of bunkers are taken into consideration.

2015 programme

Source: International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA)