June 2 - Esben Poulsson, president of the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA), has been elected as the new chairman of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS).

Poulsson replaces Masamichi Morooka, who has stepped down after four years in the position.

Poulsson identified two main challenges that he will focus on in his new position: "The first is working with IMO Member States to make further progress addressing international shipping's CO2 emissions, including our proposal that IMO should develop an 'Intended IMO Determined Contribution' for reducing the sector's CO2,  similar to the commitments already made by governments as part of the COP21 Paris Agreement.

"But even more pressing from an industry perspective is making sure we are ready for the almost certain entry in force of the IMO Ballast Water Convention, and engaging with governments, especially the USA, to overcome some remaining but really serious implementation problems."

He added: "More generally, ICS will continue to fight for the maintenance of global rules for our global industry, and continuous improvement with respect to our safety record and environmental performance."

www.ics-shipping.org