The International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) held its Annual General Meeting and Semi-annual meetings at the Four Seasons Astir Palace in Athens on 3–4 November 2025, marking continued growth and important milestones in representing the dry bulk shipping sector.

The events coincided with the Association’s 45th Anniversary Gala Dinner, attended by senior figures from the Greek and international maritime community.

The meetings brought together members and guests from around the world for two days filled with discussions on the Association’s initiatives for safer, quality-driven, and sustainable dry bulk shipping, in collaboration with stakeholders worldwide. The agenda covered a broad range of issues, including bulk carrier safety and security, operational excellence, seafarers’ welfare, DryBMS, digital initiatives, environmental challenges such as decarbonisation, as well as other dry bulk–specific technical topics. Expert presentations were delivered by members, contributing valuable insight and perspective to the discussions.

The Association’s leadership remains unchanged, with John Xylas continuing as Chairman, Metaxia Psalti and Capt. Uttam Kumar Jaiswal serving as Vice-Chairpersons, Kostas Gkonis as Secretary General, Dimitris Monioudis as Technical Committee Chair, and Cesare D’Api as Technical Committee Vice Chair. Together, they ensure stability and continuity as INTERCARGO advances its long-term strategic priorities.

In his address to members, Mr. Xylas reflected on a year of meaningful progress and engagement, noting INTERCARGO’s strengthened presence at international fora as the trusted global voice of quality dry bulk shipping.

A short video celebrating INTERCARGO’s 45-year journey was also presented as a tribute to the people and values that shaped the Association.

“From a small group of shipowners in 1980, INTERCARGO has grown into a truly global association representing more than 350 members from over 35 countries, including more than 180 Full Members managing more than 4,400 bulk carriers totalling nearly 420 million DWT — approximately 40% of the world’s dry bulk carrier fleet. Our unity and shared purpose remain our greatest strengths as we look ahead to the next decade of transition for our sector, which will be defined by collaboration, innovation, and leadership,” Mr. Xylas said.

As INTERCARGO looks toward 2026, its focus remains on ensuring that the dry bulk sector continues to operate safely, sustainably, and efficiently, while further strengthening collaboration across its expanding global membership.