Indian Register of Shipping, a leading international classification society and full member of the International Association of Classification Societies , is advancing plans to establish its presence in Germany through a new office in Hamburg. The German entity is currently under registration.

IRS, recognised by the European Commission since 2016 under Regulation (EC) No. 391/2009, has been expanding its international footprint and strengthening engagement with key maritime markets.

Hamburg, one of the leading maritime centres, provides a strategic base for IRS to engage with shipowners, ship managers, shipyards, marine equipment manufacturers, technology companies and research institutions. The office will support closer engagement with European manufacturers and facilitate their access to the growing Indian maritime and shipbuilding market through IRS’s approval, type approval, certification and compliance services.

India’s ambition to significantly expand its shipbuilding and maritime manufacturing capabilities presents new opportunities for collaboration with German and European technology and equipment companies, including through technology partnerships, joint ventures and localisation in India.

Mr. Arun Sharma, Executive Chairman, IRS, said: “Hamburg is a natural strategic location for IRS as we strengthen our presence in Europe. Our objective is to build closer relationships with the maritime industry, facilitate access to India’s growing shipbuilding ecosystem and support the adoption of advanced technologies. We see potential for collaboration in areas such as green shipping, alternative fuels, decarbonisation, digitalisation and smart ship solutions.”

“The decision by the Indian Register of Shipping to establish a presence in Hamburg demonstrates the city’s attractiveness as a leading global hub for shipping and maritime services and further strengthens our international maritime community. We were pleased to support IRS throughout its establishment process and look forward to welcoming the company to Hamburg as a valuable addition to our dynamic maritime ecosystem.‘‘ said Dr. Rolf Strittmatter, CEO, Hamburg Invest.