Leaving Seville, I am filled with immense pride and admiration for what we, as a global ship supply community, have achieved at ISSA 2024. This event, in my memory, has been the most successful ISSA gathering in Europe since I first attended in London in 1975. It was a true testament to the resilience, unity, and strength of our industry—not just in Europe but worldwide.

In an exclusive reflection, Jens Olsen, Company Director, OCEAN Treasurer, and former OCEAN Chairman (1998-2004), as well as Ex ISSA President (2009-2014), shares his insights on the recent changes in European institutions and what they mean for the ship supply sector. You won't want to miss his perspective on how these shifts will impact our industry.

In this blog entry, ISSA Executive Vice President Keijo Hiltunen proposes creating regional "OCEAN-like" groups for ISSA members worldwide, drawing on the principles of OCEAN's cross-border collaboration while adapting them to local contexts. He emphasizes the potential for these groups to foster cooperation, share best practices, and tackle industry challenges at the upcoming ISSA66 Convention in Seville.

The Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) regulation, introduced by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), requires ship suppliers to track and report hazardous materials in their goods to ensure environmental protection. While initially burdensome, the integration of IHM compliance into ERP systems has streamlined the process, reducing administrative challenges and making adherence more manageable.

In a recent discussion, Steeve Eldred, Vice Chair of the OCEAN Veterinary Working Group, delves into the intricate challenges posed by the UK's Border Operating Model (BTOM) on shipping supplies of Products of Animal Origin (POAO) to UK ports from a ship supply perspective. The BTOM, introduced in August 2023, has imposed stringent regulations that complicate what used to be routine deliveries. Eldred explains how these new requirements, ranging from health certificates to physical inspections, impact the maritime industry and what potential solutions could ease the burden.

The 2024 European elections significantly impact the ship supply industry. The new Parliament, under President Roberta Metsola from Malta, will make decisions on customs, VAT, sustainability, and port infrastructure that will shape the regulatory environment, affecting daily operations and future growth.