The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) is the principal global trade association for shipowners and operators, representing more than 80% of the world’s merchant tonnage through national shipowner associations spanning approximately 40 countries. Founded in 1921, ICS’s core mission is to advocate for the shipping industry on maritime affairs, shipping policy, and technical matters, including ship construction, operation, safety, and management. ICS plays a pivotal role in shaping international maritime regulations and best practices, acting as a consultative body to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and other intergovernmental organizations.
ICS’s work is broad and covers all sectors of the shipping industry, such as dry bulk carriers, oil and chemical tankers, gas carriers, container ships, general cargo vessels, offshore support vessels, and passenger ships. Its activities include influencing policy at the global and regional levels, particularly on issues like climate change, decarbonization, safety, and regulatory compliance. ICS is known for its strong stance on global regulation, often advocating for international, rather than regional, solutions—especially regarding climate policy and emissions trading systems. The organization has consistently opposed the unilateral inclusion of maritime transport in the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), arguing that such measures should be globally coordinated through the IMO.
ICS’s headquarters are in London, United Kingdom, with a staff of approximately 30 professionals. The organization is led by a chairman (currently Mr. Emmanuel Grimaldi) and guided by its Marine Committee, which oversees its technical and policy work. ICS’s influence extends through close partnerships with a wide array of intergovernmental and industry organizations, including the International Maritime Organization, International Labour Organization, World Customs Organization, and various national governments and maritime industry bodies.
ICS’s lobbying activities in the European Union are registered with the EU Transparency Register (registration number 179402848321-67, first registered on 9 December 2022). Its lobbying has focused on advocating for global maritime regulation, promoting industry best practices, and representing the interests of
