Qatar’s ABS dialogue: Global LNG growth, energy transition, regulatory changes

The global LNG growth and the orders for vessels needed to carry LNG, the critical technologies for the energy transition and the regulatory changes were in focus of the discussion at the ABS Maritime Committee in Qatar.

American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) class society underlined to its members its “leading position in the global orderbook”, as it claims, and the fact that it has grown the fleet to 298 million gross tons, with more than 11,600 assets.

Meanwhile, updates on the outlook for the offshore sector followed briefings on key sustainability technologies such as carbon capture and the key regulatory developments, including EUETS FuelEU.

“The growth of LNG and LNG shipping is a key component of energy transport at sea. Ensuring that safety remains the mantra of the industry is critical for a sustainable future and that is the purpose of this committee, which contains significant industry experience and insight into the challenges,” said Samir Bailouni, Nakilat chief operating officer (fleet) and ABS Maritime Committee Qatar chairman.

ABS said in its statement that it is “one of the leading classification organizations in Qatar due to long-standing relationships with the country’s marine and offshore operators.”

The Committee meetings are a forum for ABS members, including owners, operators, charterers, and industry representatives from flag administrations, owner associations, and the shipbuilding and insurance sectors, to come together with ABS leaders and discuss industry issues and developments. 

These forums are an important part of an ongoing dialogue with industry to address technical, operational and regulatory challenges.