BIMCO: Tripartite 2026 focuses on practical steps towards the next generation of ships

Regulatory clarity, decarbonisation and digitalisation were central to discussions as more than 85 representatives of shipbuilders, shipowners and classification societies, together with invited observers, met in Tokyo on 28–29 October for Tripartite 2026. BIMCO was this year’s organising association.

The annual summit examined how the industry can develop safe, secure and environmentally sustainable ships amid technological change and regulatory uncertainty. Participants reaffirmed their support for the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as shipping’s global regulator and stressed that close cooperation between regulators, shipbuilders, shipowners and classification societies is essential to making new requirements clear and workable.

“Tripartite brings together shipbuilders, shipowners and classification societies to discuss contemporary issues related to new ships. By sharing hands-on experience and working together through this unique forum, we contribute with realistic solutions that can be implemented effectively across the industry to deliver on the ambitions of the regulators at IMO,” Lars Robert Pedersen, BIMCO Deputy Secretary General

Clearer rules for new technologies and fuels Discussions covered fuel efficiency, new technologies and practical approaches to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Participants considered how safety regulation can keep pace with new fuels and novel propulsion systems, alongside the need for greater harmonisation across regulatory requirements and progress towards a single global decarbonisation framework.

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