Committees

A collaborative structure guiding the dry bulk industry’s strategic and technical direction

INTERCARGO’s work is driven by its member-led committees and working groups. At the core are the Executive and Technical Committees, which bring together representatives from each member company to shape key decisions. Supporting them are the Management Committee and Secretariat, as well as specialized working groups focused on emissions, safety, operations, quality, and regulations. This page offers an overview of how these committees operate and where your company can get involved in shaping dry bulk shipping’s future.

Executive Committee (EXCOM) 1 Representative from each Member

Executive Committee (EXCOM)

The Executive Committee comprises of one representative from each member of INTERCARGO. It assists the Management Committee and consider matters related to INTERCARGO. In general it discusses the activities of INTERCARGO and considers the future actions and objectives.

Management Committee (MANCOM) Chair/Vice Chair(s), TechCom Chair & Selectd ExCom Members

Management Committee (MANCOM)

The Management Committee comprises of the Chairman, the Vice Chairmen, the Technical Committee Chairmen in a consultative role, and the Secretary General. Its purpose is to organise the business of INTERCARGO, in accordance with the Constitution requirements and the INTERCARGO Objectives and to serve the interests of its Members.

Technical Committee (TECHCOM) 1 Representative from each Member

Technical Committee (TECHCOM)

The Technical Committee comprises of one representative from each member of INTERCARGO. The Technical Committee supports and advises our Executive Committee on technical matters. The Committee meets twice a year, once in Asia and once in Europe.

Secretariat Permanent Staff based in London & Athens

Secretariat

Based in London and Athens, the Secretariat is the association’s dedicated team responsible for executing its daily operations and strategic goals. Led by the Secretary General, the Secretariat supports the Work Programme, manages organizational activities, ensures sound financial oversight, and serves as the key point of contact for members and external stakeholders.

Members Groups Chaired by Members
GHC Emissions Working Group

GHC Emissions Working Group

Originally established to consider EEXI requirements for bulkers, the Group’s work has expanded to consider Carbon Intensity Indicators and alternative fuels. The Group is currently participating through the INTERCARGO Secretariat in an IMO Correspondence Group on the development of Guidelines for Marine Fuel Lifecycle GHG Analysis. The Group meets virtually on an ad-hoc basis and also reports to the Technical Committee.

Quality Panel

Quality Panel

The secretariat has established a “Quality Panel” tasked with considering and addressing members' concerns in the following areas:
- Inspection & vetting matters
- Port State Control
- Terminal operations
- Other quality related matters as determined by the membership
Members are encouraged to use this panel to raise concerns and request support when faced with any quality-related matter, which may benefit from intervention by the Secretariat.

Cargo Panel

Cargo Panel

Considers cargo-related matters such as liquefaction and the IMSBC Code. The Panel formally meets twice a year (once virtually and once in person) and also on an ad-hoc basis as needed. The Panel reports to the Technical Committee.

Standard Bulk Carrier Specification Working Group (BULK-SPEC WG)

Standard Bulk Carrier Specification Working Group (BULK-SPEC WG)

The BULK-SPEC Working Group has been established by INTERCARGO to develop a Standard Bulk Carrier Specification that reflects the operational, safety, and reliability needs of the dry bulk sector. The initiative responds to increasing variability in shipyard specifications, the entry of new market players, the ageing fleet, and the introduction of new technologies and alternative fuels. The Working Group will aim to define minimum quality standards for systems, equipment, and construction, provide guidance on integrating emerging technologies, and support the development of safer, more efficient, and future-ready bulk carriers.

Draft Survey Working Group

Draft Survey Working Group

Established in early 2025 to produce Guidance/Best Practices on Draft Surveys.

Shore Power Working Group

Shore Power Working Group

Established in early 2025 to participate in the development of the IEC Standards for Shore Power for Bulk Carriers.

EU Regulations Working Group

EU Regulations Working Group

Formed to monitor and engage with EU maritime regulatory developments impacting dry bulk shipping.

Biofouling Working Group

Biofouling Working Group

The Biofouling Working Group was established to coordinate INTERCARGO’s technical, operational, environmental, and regulatory work relating to marine biofouling. Its role is to support members by reviewing emerging regulatory developments, providing unified industry positions, and promoting practical, safe, and environmentally responsible biofouling management.