BMA’s Captain Ghulam Hussain joins panel in MEPC 83 Seminar Series

Reduction of Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) remains at the top of shipping’s agenda – and the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee 83 (MEPC 83) is progressing the development of the regulatory framework within which the entire industry will operate. 

In support of MEPC 83, The Bahamas’ recognised Class Society, American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), has been organising a series of seminars exploring different aspects of the committee’s work. Captain Ghulam Hussain, Deputy Director, Maritime Affairs at The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA), was honoured to be a member of the panel at the most recent seminar held in London on 8 May for the strategic dialogue on “MEPC Outcomes: What’s next for Shipping”. 

The expert panel also comprised: Katy Ware, Head of Regulatory Affairs, Zodiac; Stephen Brown, Innovation Manager, Shell International Trading and Shipping; and Francesco Sandrelli, Policy Director Environment, UK Chamber of Shipping. The debate was moderated by Stuart Neil, Director of Strategy and Communications, International Chamber of Shipping.  

The forward-looking discussion considered the outcomes of MEPC 83 and their implications for the global shipping industry, sharing opinions on compliance pathways, innovation opportunities and actionable insights for navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.  

Captain Hussain was pleased to be able to present viewpoints from a Flag State perspective and was able to assure delegates that despite the challenges faced by all, The Bahamas remains committed to pursue progress with optimism, standing alongside Ship owners and the entire maritime industry as they deal with the numerous administrative burdens which are anticipated. Importantly, he emphasised that any achievements should ensure that no country is left behind and that there is a just and equitable transition for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Less Developed Countries (LDC), including the protection of their food security.