The 2013 IBIA Annual Conference in Hong Kong this November will be examining whether or not Asian economic
growth will be enough to fuel a global recovery in the bunker markets. Sales of marine fuel oil have been weak worldwide due to slow economic growth, a sluggish shipping market and more widespread slow-steaming by   shipowners to save fuel.
Taking place at the Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers 5-7 November 2013, the conference is a key event in the bunkering industry calendar bringing together traders, brokers, shipowners from around the world. The three day event will be chaired by Robin Meech, IBIA board member and founder of Marine and Energy Consulting.
IBIA Chairman Simon Neo said:
“The bunker industry is at a pivotal stage in its development. We face numerous challenges in the form of emissions regulations, abatement technologies, new fuels, compliant fuel availability, poor freight markets and continuing economic uncertainty. However, as an industry the convention is an opportunity for us to have our say in the development of new standards and work closely with our ship operating customers to meet their marine fuel requirements.”
Key topics for discussion will include measures to reduce Hong Kong air pollution; the on-going problem of short delivery; the role of education and how it can help grow the bunker markets and the outlook for Asian bunker growth.  Speakers will include Arthur Bowring of the Hong Kong Shipowners Association, Chin Chin Ang of Maritime Port Authority Singapore, Mark Lewis from Facts Global Energy and Lim Tek CEO of Hong Lam Marine amongst many others.
The convention will feature opportunities for the delegates to interact, educate and inform, and debate the key issues affecting the industry.  Interactive technology will be used to gather delegates’ opinions on the discussions, helping IBIA to formulate its policies.  IBIA is involved in arenas such as IMO and the regional forums, helping to shape future legislation and regulations.
IBIA CEO Peter Hall said:
“The annual IBIA convention is a way for the entire industry to meet, learn and discuss the latest innovations and efficiencies that are emerging in the industry, and arrive at a consensus about the way forward. The convention will not only attract shipowners, operators, traders and suppliers not only from across Asia, but also from Europe, Africa and the Americas.  IBIA is uniquely placed in having an international membership that covers every continent in the world, thereby representing the challenges and growing pains of the marine fuel supply industry.”
The convention will feature a gala dinner at the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, lunch aboard sailing ship The Bounty as well as breakfasts and networking reception.
The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) exists to provide an international forum to address the concerns of all sectors of the international bunker industry; to represent the industry in discussions and negotiations with national and international policy makers, legislators and other groups and bodies; to review, clarify, improve, develop and endorse where appropriate, industry methods, practices and documentation; to increase the professional understanding and competence of all who work in the industry; to provide services and facilities for members and others as the Board shall from time to time consider appropriate.
IBIA gained consultative status with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in November 2005 and is represented at all relevant meetings.
IBIA actively seeks to involve is members through its Annual Convention by educating and motivating members to conclude on major issues and topics of the time, creating the “IBIA Position” to present to IMO.
IBIA champions the continued development of professionals within the bunker industry through its Bunker Courses and its Bunker Cargo Officer qualification.  
Source: IBIA (International Bunker Industry Association)