The Tripartite Forum of shipbuilders, shipowners, and classification societies has reaffirmed its support for the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as the global regulator of international shipping.
The annual Tripartite meeting, held from 22 to 23 October 2025 in Busan, South Korea, gathered more than 70 delegates from 13 countries to discuss the most pressing technical and regulatory issues facing the industry.
Established over two decades ago, the Tripartite Forum has a long record of addressing critical engineering and safety challenges, including the development of the Common Structural Rules for bulk carriers and tankers, Permanent Means of Access for tankers, and mandatory standards for ballast and cargo tank coatings.
This year’s discussions focused on key topics such as decarbonisation, onboard carbon capture, autonomous vessels, biofouling, ballast water management, underwater radiated noise, software maintenance, and grey water management.
Participants also reviewed the outcomes of the recent extraordinary session of the IMO Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) and their implications for the global maritime sector.
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Former IMO Secretary-General Kitack Lim attended the event as guest of honour, contributing insights drawn from his extensive leadership experience within the organisation.
Speaking on behalf of the organising association, International Chamber of Shipping Secretary General, Thomas A. Kazakos said: “The shipyards of tomorrow will not only build vessels; they will build confidence in the industry’s ability to meet its sustainability goals.
“By working closely with classification societies and shipowners, shipbuilders can ensure that the ships of the future are not only compliant with new regulations and fuels but are also designed to operate safely, efficiently, and competitively in an increasingly complex world. Collaboration, foresight, and a continued focus on safety will be the foundation on which the next generation of shipbuilding excellence is built.”
Next year’s Tripartite Forum is scheduled to take place in Japan in the fourth quarter of 2026.
