Alexandros Josephides: Cyprus plays a crucial role in shaping policies that promote stability and security in maritime operations

Alexandros Josephides, the newly appointed Director-General of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC), steps into a pivotal role at a defining moment for the shipping industry amid geopolitical uncertainty, decarbonisation and rapid technological advancements.

Here, he shares his vision for the CSC, discussing smart shipping, digital transformation, alternative fuels and workforce upskilling.

As the newly appointed Director-General, what is your vision for the future of the CSC?

The main goal of the CSC is to promote and safeguard the legitimate interests of our Members and Cyprus shipping. As Director- General, my sincere intention is to continue this mission while upholding the high standards set by my predecessor. I will remain committed to shaping policies that foster a viable and strong Cyprus shipping industry. To achieve this, we aim to further strengthen our close cooperation with the Deputy Ministry of Shipping, recognising it as a cornerstone of our efforts to ensure the continued growth, stability and global reputation of the Cyprus shipping industry.

The progress we have made in establishing Cyprus as a strong and well-respected shipping hub is largely the result of this productive partnership. By working even more closely together, we can effectively address emerging challenges, seize new opportunities and further enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of our shipping industry on a global scale. I look forward to continuing this valuable cooperation in a spirit of mutual trust and shared commitment to excellence.

Amid increasing geopolitical uncertainty, how can the Cyprus shipping industry navigate risks while ensuring continued growth?

The industry remains resilient by maintaining a strong and diversified shipping registry, supported by a robust legal and regulatory framework aligned with international standards. The CSC plays a proactive role in navigating these challenges. At an international level, it closely monitors developments through its active involvement at the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and the European Community Shipowners’ Associations (ECSA). Locally, we work closely with the Deputy Ministry of Shipping to provide our member-companies with timely guidance and necessary information to ensure the safety and security of our ships and our seafarers.

Furthermore, thanks to its strong presence in the EU and within the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), Cyprus plays a crucial role in shaping policies that promote stability and security in maritime operations. Through these concerted efforts, the Cyprus shipping industry remains secure, competitive and well-positioned to thrive, despite these challenges.

What are the biggest challenges for Cyprus in achieving the IMO’s 2050 decarbonisation targets and what role can alternative fuels play in this transition?

The transition to a greener shipping industry is a global effort and many of the difficulties that Cyprus faces are shared by the international maritime community. While shipping is extremely committed to achieving these goals for a greener era, issues such as the lack of clear and universally applied policies, may lead to uneven competition and regulatory uncertainty for shipowners and operators.

Additionally, securing the necessary funding for research, development and the large-scale deployment of low and zero-carbon technologies remains a significant hurdle. Alternative fuels such as LNG and biofuels will play an important role in the earlier stages on the pathway to decarbonisation. Ammonia, hydrogen and methanol are seen as some of the long-term pathways to reaching net zero GHG emissions by 2050.

However, their widespread adoption is hindered by challenges related to availability, infrastructure, safety and regulatory frameworks. The industry must also address technical and operational concerns in relation to the existing fleet, such as the retrofitting of ships with energy enhancing technologies. For Cyprus, as an important maritime nation, the focus should be on supporting innovation, facilitating collaboration between stakeholders and ensuring a level playing field for shipowners operating under its flag. Strengthening cooperation between the Government, industry players and international organisations will be crucial in driving progress toward decarbonisation while maintaining the competitiveness of Cyprus shipping in the global market.

Is Cyprus’ port infrastructure adequate to facilitate smart shipping and digital port operations?

Ports are an integral part of shipping’s decarbonisation efforts. Smart shipping and digital port operations are essential in assisting the ships’ efficient operations. Cyprus has two well-established ports in Limassol and Larnaca. The port operators are well-positioned to support smart shipping and digital port operations, as they have a deep understanding of the current infrastructure and the evolving needs of port stakeholders. Of course, digitalisation in port operations is a collaborative effort, bringing together industry players to enhance efficiency, transparency and service quality. The benefits of advanced technology are apparent and include reshaping the way ports function, streamlining workflows, optimising cargo handling and improving workforce productivity and safety.

With decarbonisation a priority in global shipping, how can the industry ensure that vessels are managed and recycled in an environmentally responsible manner? Does Cyprus have the necessary infrastructure to support this in compliance with green shipping regulations?

While Cyprus does not have the infrastructure for ship recycling, the resident shipping industry fully complies with all EU regulations on ship recycling. EU- flagged ships are sent to shipyards approved under the EU list of approved ship recycling yards, ensuring that they are disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner and in full accordance with regulatory requirements. Furthermore, the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships will enter into force on 26 June 2025. This convention establishes a comprehensive global framework to ensure that all ships are recycled safely and sustainably at the end of their operational lives.

The CSC has strongly supported the implementation of the Hong Kong Convention, recognising that, in a truly global industry, it is essential to have universal regulations governing ship recycling. A standardised international framework further enhances safety, environmental protection and compliance across all regions, ensuring that ship recycling is conducted under controlled and sustainable conditions.

How is Cyprus addressing crew shortages while also investing in maritime upskilling to meet the growing demand for highly skilled seafarers in an increasingly digitalised industry?

For over 30 years, the CSC has been at the forefront of promoting maritime education and inspiring the younger generation to explore the many benefits of a career in shipping, starting at primary school level. Initiatives such as the "Adopt a Ship" programme, established by the Chamber in cooperation with CYMEPA and running for 19 years, along with high school presentations across Cyprus, participation in career fairs and support for cadets and maritime graduates in finding employment, demonstrate our strong commitment to this goal.

In recognition of these efforts by the Chamber, the Deputy Ministry of Shipping nominated me, on behalf of the Chamber, as the IMO’s Goodwill Maritime Ambassador (IMOGMA) for Cyprus in 2015 when this scheme was introduced by the IMO. The role of the IMOGMA is exactly to promote marine and maritime careers to the young generation.

Beyond raising awareness, the CSC is actively working to develop a sustainable skills strategy, ensuring not only an increase in maritime professionals but also enhancing the safety and efficiency of this vital sector. Future-proofing skills for the maritime transport industry is essential to maintaining its long-term resilience. As Cyprus’ shipping industry transitions into a smart-shipping era, becoming increasingly digitalised and automated, shipping companies are aligning their digital strategies with their business objectives. Most importantly, they are investing in upskilling their workforce to meet the evolving demands of new technologies, ensuring that employees are equipped with the necessary expertise to drive innovation and efficiency in the sector.

(Photo by Giorgos Charal.)

This article first appeared in the March edition of GOLD magazine. Click here to view it