Panos Laskaridis, the founder of Laskaridis Shipping, issued a serious warning during the 9th Naftemporiki Shipping Conference. He emphasized that the real crisis facing the shipping industry is not political figures like Trump or conflicts involving the Houthis, but the decline of the Greek registry and a critical shortage of officers.
Laskaridis pointed out that daily concerns for Greek shipping companies revolve around operational challenges rather than geopolitical issues or trade tensions.
“Our focus is not on Trump; it’s on our crews and the functioning of our vessels,” he stated.
“Let’s Address What Truly Impacts Us”
In the conference’s third session, titled “Shipping in Disruption: Threat or Opportunity?”, Laskaridis questioned the overemphasis on geopolitical and commercial disruptions.
“Disruptions have always been part of shipping history. We’ve seen transitions from sails to steam and have endured wars and crises. While some challenges are significant and others temporary, permanent changes like artificial intelligence are also serious. Yet, my main concern is what impacts my crew and fleet daily,” he emphasized.
The Challenge of Decarbonization
On the topic of the green transition, he expressed that the shipping industry is facing tremendous pressure to achieve decarbonization amid a climate crisis: “We need to move towards decarbonization, but the current approach is flawed. We lack the necessary logistics, fuels, and direction. Change should not be forced upon us.”
He also criticized the disproportionate scrutiny on shipping: “Why isn’t there similar pressure on other industries? The shipping sector is politically vulnerable and financially capable. After we didn’t participate in COP in 2010, the backlash against us began,” he remarked.
Data and Artificial Intelligence: “A Significant Disruption”
Laskaridis highlighted digitalization and data utilization as transformative elements for shipping. “Data allows me to understand my vessel and crew better, manage charterer expectations, and move towards condition-based maintenance. These practicalities matter far more than Trump’s tariffs,” he stated.
Concerns Over Officer Shortages and the Decline of the Greek Flag
In one of his most striking points, he warned: “In five years, we will need 100,000 new officers. With 60,000 ships, we will be short 1.5 officers on average per vessel. I foresee a future where the Greek registry may no longer exist. Currently, there are just 450 Greek-flagged ships at sea. This is a significant disruption.”
“Shipping Involves More Than Just Shipowners”
In conclusion, Laskaridis stressed the importance of the entire shipping ecosystem: “Fifteen years ago, we believed shipping was solely about the shipowners. My experience in Brussels made me realize it encompasses the whole maritime sector. That’s where true power lies.”
