Nicosia: After three decades at the helm of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC), Thomas Kazakos, who is taking on a new, significant role in global shipping as the first Cypriot to be appointed Secretary General and CEO of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), speaks to CNA about the shipping industry of Cyprus which, as he points out, has gained credibility and international recognition, built on a strong infrastructure and technical expertise developed over the past 30 years.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Kazakos outlines the key milestones of Cyprus’ shipping over the last three decades and stressed the importance of close cooperation between the public and private sectors for the continued benefit of the country. He also speaks about the strategic goals and priorities of the ICS.
Reviewing his tenure as Director General of the CSC, Kazakos notes the Chamber’s significant growth – expanding from 30 to 204 member companies – and its critical role in the establishment of the Deputy Ministry of Shipping, as well as the adoption of Cyprus’ specialised maritime tax regime, which has helped shield the industry during global crises.
Kazakos acknowledges that his new post at the ICS, representing over 80% of the world’s commercial fleet, comes with major responsibilities and challenges – from green transition and digitalization to defending the global regulatory framework against unilateral protectionist measures in international trade.
Kazakos emphasizes that his primary role will be to represent the legitimate interests of the global shipping industry and shipowners before regional and international institutions and ICS national members. He says that his appointment, chosen from among other high-caliber candidates, was above all a recognition of the long-standing and multifaceted infrastructure and expertise that Cyprus has developed in the maritime sector.
When asked about his priorities in his new position, Kazakos underlines the need for the continued dynamic and institutional presence of the ICS as the professional and organised voice of international shipping. As he notes, the top priority was ensuring that the legitimate interests of shipowners continue to be considered by national and international decision-making bodies.
Regarding future challenges, the new ICS leader focuses on the significant challenges of decarbonizing shipping and the green transition. He highlights the sector’s vital role during the pandemic, ensuring the transport of essential goods and pharmaceuticals, and its contribution to Europe’s energy security during the Russo-Ukrainian war.
Kazakos appraises his 33 years in Cypriot and international shipping, highlighting key milestones. He notes the founding of the CSC in 1989 with 17 members, which has now grown to 204, reflecting Cyprus’s shipping industry growth. He emphasizes the trust maritime companies place in CSC and the collaboration with governments and political bodies.
The second milestone, as he notes, was the approval of Cyprus’s shipping tax system in 2010 and 2019, providing stability and preventing shipping companies from leaving during crises. The sector contributed at least 7% to GDP during the financial crisis.
Kazakos highlights the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors for Cyprus’ shipping success, citing the EU accession process as a key example. He recalls how, during negotiations in 1996, Cyprus overcame safety concerns about its flag and became the first country to close the shipping chapter in 2002.