Turkey’s growing maritime industry is set to take a bigger role in the development of professional shipbroking standards following its admittance to the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) governing body. The London headquartered ICS provides globally recognised professional qualifications for brokers, agents and managers. It becomes the 27th branch member of the 111 year old organisation.
ICS Turkey, based in Istanbul, will be responsible for growing the membership and education programme in Turkey and coordinating events, workshops, and examination centres. With its representation at Institute Controlling Council meetings, the Turkey branch will join other international branches in playing an integral and influential role in the overall development of the Institute.
Welcoming the branch at the Institute’s Controlling Council Meeting in London, ICS Chairman Glenn Murphy said:
“Turkey is a fast growing maritime force. With over 1000 ship agencies active across the country supporting the 526m tonnes of cargo handled in Turkish ports in 2021, not to mention the increasing number of shipbrokers and ship managers, high quality professional education is critical to the country’s development as an international shipping centre. We are delighted to elevate Turkey to ICS branch status.”
ICS Turkey is chaired by Bahadir Tonguc FICS, who is also managing director of Supramar Shipping & Trading.
He said: “This is a journey which began in 2012 when an ICS member had an idea that was quickly supported by professionals working in shipping in Turkey. It steadily grew over the years to the forming of a leadership group, the hosting of events, the development of teaching resources and local exam centres to support students, and the qualification of new members. We are delighted to be recognised by our peers and look forward to growing the membership and education programme in Turkey and contributing to the Institute as the
global organisation for shipping professionals.”
