The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) has announced the completion of a two-year chairmanship term, with the outgoing chair pointing to greater visibility, broader membership and stronger regulatory engagement during the period.

Constantinos Capetanakis, Bunker Director at Star Bulk Carriers, said the non-renewable term came to an end on 31 March. He will remain active within the association as a Global Board member and Executive Committee member, while also chairing the Future Fuels Working Group and coordinating the newly formed Bunker Buyers’ Working Group.

In a LinkedIn post, Capetanakis explained that IBIA had increased its presence in important industry and institutional forums over the past two years, including deeper engagement with the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The association is also said to have expanded and diversified its membership, developed new partnerships globally and continued practical work across key parts of the marine energy transition.

Capetanakis remarked: “What our sector needs is not slogans, but practical solutions which can be applied across the full shipping chain, from terminal to bunker barge, from office to decision-making centres, and on board our vessels.”

The outgoing chair noted that IBIA's role was distinct because it represents the full marine energy value chain, including buyers, suppliers, traders, shipowners, energy majors, technical experts and regulators, while keeping its focus on practical outcomes.

The Bunker Buyers’ Working Group, which was introduced during the recent chairmanship, is intended to give marine fuel end-users a clearer and more structured voice within IBIA.

Capetanakis credited the association’s Global Board, Regional Boards, Secretariat, working groups and wider membership for supporting IBIA's progress during the term.