Laskaridis Shipping Co. Ltd. is pleased to announce the successful hosting of its established Roundtable Workshop on Friday, 8 May 2026, held for the third consecutive time on the occasion of Posidonia.
The event was held under the auspices of the Australian Ambassador to Greece, Ms. Alison Duncan. Distinguished guest speakers included Mr. Carlo di Meglio, Manager, Operations West of AMSA and Mr. Samuel McSkimming, Chief Executive Officer of Pilbara Ports.
The invited speakers shared valuable insights and expectations regarding developments within the bulk carrier industry with a highly distinguished audience comprising senior representatives from major Flag Administrations, Classification Societies operating in Greece, and the Vice Chair of Intercargo, Ms. Metaxia Psalti.
Particular focus was given to operational risks and navigational challenges associated with Port Hedland, Port Dampier, and other Western Australian ports, prompting an engaging and constructive dialogue among participants.
Several important developments and industry updates of significant interest to the bulk carrier community were highlighted during the workshop, including:
- Pilbara Ports indicated that it will, on request, positively consider the recently introduced third-party machinery inspections conducted by Classification Societies, in addition to the inspection companies currently accepted
- It was announced that a new navigation channel will be dredged to bypass Zone 5 of the channel at Port Hedland. The dredging works are expected to take place from September through November 2026, enhancing the safety of outbound navigation from the consistently busy port
- AMSA reaffirmed that remote surveys remain acceptable, except in cases involving verification of detainable items, where the physical attendance of Classification Society surveyors remains mandatory
- Encouraging industry performance data was also shared, showing that bulk carriers demonstrated improved performance in 2025, with detention rates reduced to 5.3%, compared to 6.8% in 2024. This is the lowest rate recorded since 2020
Recordings of the presentations and discussions are currently under preparation and will be circulated in due course.
