Archive – 2018

Finance conference speakers take a more optimistic view of shipping market trends

Abu Dhabi, 8th November 2018: The fourth Maritime Standard Ship Finance and Trade Conference, held at Abu Dhabi’s Sheraton Hotel and Resort, was in many ways very different from the preceding three events in this increasingly popular series. While in other years the sense of challenge and adversity was dominant, this year speakers at the one-day conference were generally much more optimistic and upbeat about market prospects, although a number of potential hazards on the road to full recovery were also much in evidence.

Conference chairman, Clive Woodbridge, editor of The Maritime Standard, said, “This time speakers generally focussed on how shipping companies and port operators in the region might take full advantage of more promising market fundamentals. There was in particular clear agreement that stakeholders need to work more closely together to ensure that these emerging opportunities can be capitalised on, and also that greater flexibility in terms of financing options will be required, with for example crowd funding type solutions coming into the equation.”

Keynote speaker, H.E. Ahmed Shareef Alkhoori, Director General, Federal Transport -Land & Maritime, set the scene, underlining some of the positive changes being planned for the country’s maritime laws, and the proactive role the UAE is now taking in its role as an IMO Council member.

The conference was hosted by Abu Dhabi Ports and so it was fitting that chief executive, Capt. Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, gave the second keynote presentation. He called for a new era of collaboration between the financial sector and those active in shipping and ports, suggesting that, “By investing in ports, shipping and logistics, we can ensure the region has the ecosystem to attract the biggest names in the business and help them establish, or grow, their presence in the region. But, we need the support of the financial industry to do so.”

For a long time, he suggested, financial institutions have lacked the depth of knowledge needed to fully understand the fundamentals of the ports and shipping sector, which has affected their confidence to support development. “This in turn limits our ability to seize opportunities and to grow,” Captain Shamisi added. “If our industry is to truly realise its potential in this region then this must change, which is why I am calling on financial institutions, whether based here or elsewhere in the world, to open their eyes and their minds to all that our industry has to offer.”

The main session then assessed how infrastructure and asset investment can unlock trade potential. Speakers, who provided examples of how this was working in practice in different parts of the region, included Capt. Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO, ADNOC Logistics & Services; Ross Thompson, Chief Commercial and Strategy Officer – Ports; Abu Dhabi Ports; Michael Jorgensen, CFO, Oman Shipping Company; Dr Priyath Wickrama, Chairman, Bestar Consultancy; and Saliya Wickramasuriya from Hambantota International Port Group.

Conference delegates were then treated to a special ‘up close’ question and answer interview session with Bibop Gresta, Chairman, Hyperloop and Sanjay Mehta, Chairman, S One Capital. “The chance to hear about this technology and how it will affect both freight and passenger transport in the region greatly appreciated and generated a lot of audience involvement,” says Clive. “This is going to be innovative, disruptive technology and it is fitting that it will be in Abu Dhabi that people get a first glimpse into its potential.”

After lunch the topic moved to the future of ship finance and in particular the implications of changes in this sector for the market in Middle East and the Indian Subcontinent. In a session chaired by well-known industry expert, Jesper Kjaedegaard, speakers included Bobby Varghese, Vice President- Financial Strategy, Abu Dhabi Ports; Jacob Berman, Director, Standard Chartered; Ali Shehab, Deputy CEO, Kuwait Oil Tanker Company; Marcus Machin, CEO, Tufton Oceanic (Middle East); Andrew Simmons, CEO, Global Marine Transport; Tien Tai; Regional Partner, HFW; and Michael Savva, Partner, Watson Farley Williams.

Supporting regional trade development was the subject of the third and final session. Delivering a varied series of presentations, that looked at different commercial, financial and technical influences on local trade flows, Capt. S.R. Patnaik; CEO; International Shipping & Logistics; Bora Bariman, Head of Energy and Marine, National Bank of Fujairah; Waleed Altamimi, General Manager, Emirates Classification Society (TASNEEF); and Giovanni Moscatelli, Partner and Managing Director, Boston Consulting Group Middle East, all kept the audience fully engaged, and listening intently right to the end.

Maritime Standard Awards recognises industry achievements

The fifth annual The Maritime Standard Awards, held on Monday 15th October at the iconic Atlantis Ballroom, on The Palm, was an impressive occasion that demonstrated once again why it is widely considered to be the leading regional awards ceremony for the maritime industry. Hosted by top BBC journalist, Tim Willcox, the Awards were attended by a high-level audience comprising more than 700 executives in shipping, ports, shipbuilding and repair and related sectors, from almost 70 different countries.

The glittering, glamorous event, held once again under the patronage of His Highness, Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, celebrates and rewards the achievements of leading companies and individuals active in maritime fields in the Middle East and the Indian Subcontinent.

The Maritime Standard Awards founder and managing director, Trevor Pereira, said: “It was a huge honour that His Highness was able to attend and show his support not just for the awards but the industry as a whole. Having such an esteemed leader in the ballroom gives a clear message that the significance of the maritime industry in the UAE, and the wider region, is fully acknowledged at the highest level.”

In total 21 awards were presented to individuals and companies following the deliberations of the judging panel. Clive Woodbridge, editor of TMS and chairman of the judges, said, “Once again all the entries were of a very high standard and the evidence that this is a region where innovation and quality is valued was there for all to see. It was not an easy task deciding the winners of each category and anyone who was shortlisted demonstrated that they were worthy contenders.”

In addition to the awards determined by the judging panel, there were a number of special awards presented by the TMS team for particularly impressive levels of performance. The Maritime Standard Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Professor Mustafa Amin Massad of the Jordan Academy for Maritime Studies; The Personality of the Year Award went to KOTC’s Ali Shehab Ahmed; and the International Marine Personality of the Year was presented to Dr. Nikolas Tsakos, chairman of Intertanko. In addition a special Outstanding Achievement Award was presented to Captain Anoop Kumar Sharma for his work over 34 years in the industry.

Other awards selected by The Maritime Standard included H.E. Eng. Hessa Al Malek, of the UAE Federal Transport Agency, who was the recipient of the Woman in Shipping award, and H.E. Eduardo Fonseca, Ambassador of the Republic of Panama, who was named Young Person in Shipping. Captain Abdulkareem Al Masabi secured the Excellence in Shipping Award and the winner of the Deal of the Year was International Maritime Industries of Saudi Arabia. Dubai Maritime City Authority was given the Best Practice Award and the Editor’s Choice Award went to Oman Drydock Company.

Trevor Pereira added, “It was a tremendous night of celebration, and acknowledgement, which highlighted the fantastic achievements of both companies and individuals and demonstrated to a global audience the rapid progress that is being made in the region. The whole occasion was uplifting, and entertaining, and I am really proud of my team at TMS who delivered the biggest and best awards for the maritime sector in the region, one that this industry fully deserves.”

Event: 2nd Annual International Investment Summit and Exhibition “Hydropower Balkans 2018”
Date: 6-8 November 2018
Venue: Budva, Montenegro
Organiser: Vostock Capital

2nd annual International investment Summit and Exhibition “Hydropower Balkans 2018” (6-8 November 2018, Budva, Montenegro) is a dedicated platform bringing together ministers, major investors, decision-makers of flagship hydropower plants, and investment project initiators, as well as regulators, in a concerted effort to efficiently execute key projects for HPP construction and modernisation all over the Balkan region. Bronze sponsor: AndritzHydro.

Hydropower Balkans 2018 in facts and figures:

200+ C-level executives of HPP and HPP operators, regional governments’ authorities, and leaders of equipment and technologies production;
Extended delegations from the Balkans flagship companies, namely: Bulgarian National Electric Company EAD, Macedonian Power Plants (ELEM), Elektroprivreda of the Republika Srpska, PPC, HIDROELECTRICA, HEP-Proizvodnja, VERBUND Hydro Power and others;
Among VIP guests: Bogdan-Nicolae Badea, President of Management Board, HIDROELECTRICA; Dietmar Reiner, Managing Director Energji Ashta, VERBUND; Momchil Vanov, CFO, Bulgarian Energy Holding; Ioannis Argyrakis, Director of hydroelectric generation department, PPC; Christopher Millward, Head for Europe, Middle East and North Africa, MIGA; Anastasia Markova, Director Electricity Production and Trade, Bulgarian National Electric Company EAD and many others;
Regulatory representatives of the Balkan region countries: Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy of Albania, Ministry of Economy of Montenegro, Ministry of Energy of Romania, Ministry of agriculture, forestry and water economy of Macedonia, Regulatory Commission for Energy of Republic of Srpska and many others;
Onsite visits to the Piva and Perucica HPPs.

Programme Highlights 2018:

Balkan greenfield projects with 2019-2025 implementation period: Albania, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, Bulgaria, Romania and Kosovo
Energy Ministerial Meeting on international cooperation and effective implementation of the investment projects in the Balkans
Onsite visit to one of the most progressive HPPs in the Balkan region – explore effective project execution strategies!
Meeting the investors: project initiators will discuss collaboration opportunities with international investors within prescheduled meetings
Leaders’ debate: Single region implies consolidated energy market! Projections of governments, initiators and investors. Finance and investment landscape
Case studies from companies, successfully carrying out their projects for HPPs’ construction and modernization across the region
Tailor-made session and exclusive exhibition: innovative solutions and equipment in the context of greenfield and brownfield development
Unparalleled networking opportunities: gala dinner, exhibition, champagne roundtables, and face-to-face meetings
FAST AND EFFICIENT! Roadshow of breakthrough technologies and equipment

Contact person: Forum Director Milana Stavnaya
Email: MStavnaya@vostockcapital.com
Tel. +44 207 394 3090
Website: http://www.hydropowerbalkans.com/

Join the Open Discussion on new hydropower hot spots – Caspian, Central Asia, Latin America and the Balkans

Event: Open Debate Hydropower Caspian and Central Asia, Balkans, Latin America
Date: 16 October, 2018
Venue: Gdansk, Poland, 17:30-19:30
Organiser: Vostock Capital

We’re delighted to announce the Open Hydropower Debate that will be held on 16th October 2018 in Gdansk, Poland.

Join the experts in hydropower industry to enjoy networking and evening cocktails. This is the perfect setting to consider all the pros and cons of working in hydropower industry in promising regions of Caspian and Central Asia, Latin America and the Balkans.

The Proposition: This house believes that new hydropower hot spots are not in Central Europe

The speakers are:

Proposition: Øystein Lilleland, Head of Global Market, Norconsult AS
Opposition: Ajay Chaudhary, Hydropower Account Leader, Mott MacDonald

During the debate you will:

Get the updates on the world’s emerging hydropower hot spots
Equip yourself with the information about flagship investment projects in Caspian, Central Asia, Latin America and the Balkans
Discuss the most significant issues, challenges and risk in hydropower industry of these regions
Explore the opportunities and prospects to gain a tangible advantage for your company to work in these new emerging markets

Official website: https://www.hydropowercongress.com/en/debates/
Contact: Milana Stavnaya, Project Director
E-mail: MStavnaya@vostockcapital.com
Tel. +44 207 394 30 90 (London)

Intertanko chairman confirmed to speak at Dubai tanker conference

One of the main attractions at this year’s TMS Tanker Conference, which takes place on October 15th at Atlantis, the Palm, Dubai, is the keynote speech of the influential Greek shipowner and chairman of Intertanko, Nikolas Tsakos. Mr Tsakos has been chairman of this important organisation which now has more than 200 members, who between them own more than 4000 tankers totalling 353 million dwt, since 2014.

Over the course of his chairmanship, Intertanko has become a more commercially focused organisation, has expanded its representation within the gas carrier sector and has also stepped up its lobbying on key issues affecting the tanker shipping business. This includes the impending introduction of the sulphur emissions cap in 2020 and the introduction of ballast water treatment systems. Mr Tsakos will use his keynote speech at the TMS Tanker Conference to set out some hard-hitting messages on the regulatory challenges facing the market and also how Intertanko has become a more relevant organisation that is better positioned to ensure the voices of tanker owners and operators are heard.

Mr Tsakos recently opened an important new maritime educational venture through the Maria Tsakos Foundation on Chios Island in Greece. The Tsakos Enhanced Education Nautical School is the first specialist private school for 14-17 year olds in Greece and aims to encourage young people to consider the maritime professions, helping reverse a decline in the number of Greek seafarers. The new school opened in September this year and already has over 20 students on the roll.

Other keynote speakers at the Tanker Conference are Sheikh Talal Al Khaled Al Sabah, chief executive of KOTC and Abdullah Bin Damithan, chief commercial officer, DP World. Session 1 which follows the keynote speakers features Capt. Abdulkareem Al Masabi, chief executive, ADNOC Logistics & Services; Capt. Anoop Kumar Sharma, chairman and managing director, The Shipping Corporation of India Limited; Tarik Al Junaidi, chief executive, Oman Shipping Company; Khamis Juma Buamim, managing director and group chief executive, Gulf Navigation Holding and Chris Peters, chief executive, Emirates Ship Investment Company.

For more information about the conference programme please go to: www.tmstankerconference.com

The Maritime Standard reveals finalists for 2018 Awards

For Immediate Release
Press Contact:
Ammaar Murtaza Moosa
M: +971 55 245 4466
E: ammaar@flagshipme.com

(A Division of Flagship Events LLC)
PO Box 25980,
Office 108, Oasis Centre,
Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE
Tel: + 971 4 380 5556 | Fax: +971 4 380 5509
www.flagshipme.com

Dubai, 17th September 2018: The full list of finalists for the fifth annual The Maritime Standard Awards, to be held on Monday, 15th October 2018, at the Atlantis, the Palm, Dubai, has been announced. Around 800 high level executives from the worlds of shipping, ports, shipbuilding and repair and other maritime sectors will attend the event, along with leading figures from governmental agencies and international industry bodies, to witness the presentation of these prestigious awards.

For the fifth year in a row The Maritime Standard (TMS) has secured the royal patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group.

An expert panel of judges drawn from different industry sectors, all with a long track record of excellence in their chosen fields, has over the past few weeks been assessing and evaluating nominations for a total of 19 different categories, the winners of which will be announced at the Gala dinner. The Editor of The Maritime Standard, Clive Woodbridge, says, “Once again the standard of entries for all of the Awards has been exceptionally high and a tremendous amount of effort has been put into making a strong case for each entry. It has not been an easy job for the judges to assess the entries, make comparisons and come to conclusions, but I am pleased to say this process has now been completed and all of those who are in contention for an Award deserve recognition as quality performers.”

The categories that have been judged by the panel are: Safety and Security; Environmental Protection; Green Shipping; Technology & Innovation; Corporate Social Responsibility; Maritime Education and Training; Transport & Logistics and Energy, Oil and Gas Shipping. In addition there are awards for Shipyard/Ship Repair Facility; Marine Broker; Marine Insurance Company; Ship Manager; Ship Agency; Tanker Operator; Shipowner and Operator; Classification Society; Terminal Operator; Shipping Company and Port of the Year.

The full list of finalists is:

The Safety and Security Award

• Bahri Ship Management
• DNV-GL
• DP World UAE Region
• Drydocks World Dubai
• Emarat Maritime LLC
• Emirates Classification Society (TASNEEF)
• Essar Ports Ltd
• Kuwait Oil Tanker Company
• Oman Ship Management Company
• The Shipping Corporation of India

The Environment Protection Award

• DP World, UAE Region
• Emarat Maritime LLC
• Fairdeal Marine Services LLC
• HullWiper Limited
• Kuwait Oil Tanker Company
• LUKOIL Marine Lubricants DMCC
• MAN Diesel & Turbo Middle East LLC

The Green Shipping Award

• Emarat Maritime LLC
• GMS (Dubai)
• HullWiper Limited
• Kuwait Oil Tanker Company
• Monjasa
• Orient Overseas Container Line Limited

The Technology/Innovations Award

• Abu Dhabi Ports
• HullWiper Limited
• Kongsberg Maritime Middle East DMCCO
• Kuwait Institute of Maritime Research
• LUKOIL Marine Lubricants DMCC
• MAN Diesel & Turbo Middle East LLC
• Marlink
• ShipNEXT

The Corporate Social Responsibility Award

• DP World India
• Essar Ports Ltd
• Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST)
• Maharashtra Maritime Board
• The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd

Shipyard / Ship Repair Facility of the Year

• Abu Dhabi Ship Building
• Albwardy Damen
• Drydocks World Dubai
• Inter Ocean Ship Repair LLC
• Nico International

The Maritime Education & Training Award

• Abu Dhabi Ports
• DP World
• Jordan Academy for Maritime Studies
• Kuwait Oil Tanker Company
• Mercantile Seaman Training Institute Ltd.
• The Shipping Corporation of India

Energy, Oil and Gas Shipping Award

• Gulf Navigation Holding PJSC
• Monjasa

Transport and Logistics Award

• GAC Group
• Hellmann Worldwide Logistics LLC
• Pentagon Freight Services LLC
• Tristar Transport
• Yacht International Co. LLC

Marine Broker of the Year

• Maersk Broker Middle East DMC EST
• Main Mast Marsec Private Limited
• McQuilling Shipping Services DMCC
• Safepassage Shipping LLP

Marine Insurer of the Year
• Dubai National Insurance and Reinsurance PSC
• General Insurance Corporation Of India
• Islamic P&I Club
• Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance (Middle East) B.S.C
• The New India Assurance Co Ltd

Ship Manager of the Year

• Bahri Ship Management Ltd. DMCC
• Gulf Navigation Holding PJSC
• Synergy Group

Ship Agency of the Year

• DTA Ship Agency
• GAC Group
• KANOO Shipping
• Wilhelmsen Ships Service
• Yacht International Co. LLC

Tanker Operator of the Year

• ADNOC Logistics & Services
• Bahri
• Gulf Navigation Holding PJSC
• Kuwait Oil Tanker Company
• Oman Charter Company S.A.O.C
• Tristar Shipping

Ship Owner/Operator of the Year

• ADNOC Logistics & Services
• Bahri
• Gulf Navigation Holding PJSC
• International Shipping & Logistics FZE
• The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd
• Tomini Shipping
• Tristar Shipping

Classification Society of the Year

• American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)
• DNV-GL
• Emirates Classification Society (TASNEEF)

Terminal Operator of the Year

• Abu Dhabi Terminals
• ADANI Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited
• DP World, UAE Region
• Essar Ports Ltd
• Red Sea Gateway Terminal

Port of the Year
• Abu Dhabi Ports
• Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited
• Essar Ports Ltd

Shipping Company of the Year
• APL Emirates L.L.C
• Bahri
• Gulf Navigation Holding PJSC
• Oman Charter Company S.A.O.C
• The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd

In addition to the Awards chosen by the judging panel on the basis of the nominations submitted, there will be a number of individual awards selected by The Maritime Standard. These include the Best Practices Award; Deal of the Year; Young Person in Shipping; Woman in Shipping; Editor’s Choice; Outstanding Achievement; Personality of the Year; TMS Excellence in Shipping; Lifetime Achievement; and Hall of Fame Awards.

The selection of these shortlisted companies and organisations has been carried out by the independent judging panel, against criteria set for each category. No judge is asked to vote in a category where their company has an interest, nor where they are a nominee. The Maritime Standard Awards 2018 judges, all well respected individuals with deserved reputations in the industry for their expertise and integrity, are:

• Clive Woodbridge, Editor, The Maritime Standard (Chairman of the Judging Panel)
• Ali Shehab, Deputy CEO, KOTC
• Capt. Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO, ADNOC Logistics & Services
• Angus Frew, Secretary General/CEO, BIMCO
• Capt. Anoop Kumar Sharma, Chairman and Managing Director, The Shipping Corporation of India
• H.E. Eng. Hessa Bint Ahmed Al Malek, Executive Director of the Maritime Sector, Federal Transport Authority-Land & Maritime
• Ruwan Waidyaratne, Chairman of CASA and MD of Hayley’s Advantis Limited
• Dr. Mustafa Massad, President, Jordan Academy for Maritime Studies
• Capt. David Stockley, COO, Oman Shipping Company
• Capt. S.R. Patnaik, Director and Chief Executive Officer, International Shipping and Logistics
• Capt. Jitendra Misra, Managing Director, Emarat Maritime
• Eng. Sherine El Naggar, Chairman, Eng. Sherine El Naggar

More information about The Maritime Standard Awards, and how to book a table to attend this prestigious event, can be found by going to www.tmsawards.com

Visit Piva and Perucica HPPs planned to be reconstructed over the next 5 years

Contact person: Forum Director Milana Stavnaya
Email: MStavnaya@vostockcapital.com
Tel. +44 207 394 3090
Website: www.hydropowerbalkans.com

Vostock Capital is happy to invite you to the onsite visit to Piva and Perucica HPPs, Montenegro, planned to be reconstructed over the next 5 years. The visitors will learn about the Operator EPCG’s investment programme for HPP reconstruction, as well as technologies, equipment used, and expected performance indicators. Besides, the participants will have the opportunity to get in touch with the Operator’s and HPPs’ decision-makers.

• ONSITE VISIT TO PIVA HPP*, MONTENEGRO
HPP “Piva” is a reservoir dam facility with one of the largest concrete arch dam in the world. It was built in 1976. Installed power — 342 MW.
• ONSITE VISITS TO PERUCICA HPP*, MONTENEGRO
HPP “Perućica” is the oldest large hydropower plant in Montenegro and was put into operation in 1960. Its installed capacity is 307 MW.

* The number of participation passes on the onsite visit is strictly limited. Contact the organiser to learn about participation terms and conditions.

The participants of the onsite visit will visit two hydropower stations and learn about the operators’ investment plans on revitalization, technologies and equipment required for implementation, and what results of modernization are expected.

As a reminder, the onsite visits are organized in the run up to the 2nd International Summit and Exhibition “Hydropower Balkans 2018”, held in Budva, Montenegro, on November 6-8, 2018.

2nd annual International Investment Summit and Exhibition “Hydropower Balkans 2018” (6-8 November 2018, Budva, Montenegro) is a dedicated platform bringing together ministers, major investors, decision-makers of flagship hydropower plants, and investment project initiators, as well as regulators, in a concerted effort to efficiently execute key projects for HPP construction and modernisation all over the Balkan region. Bronze sponsor: AndritzHydro.

Major investment projects for the construction and modernisation of Hydropower Plants in the Balkans

Contact person: Forum Director Milana Stavnaya
Email: MStavnaya@vostockcapital.com
Tel. +44 207 394 3090
Website: http://www.hydropowerbalkans.com/

A team of analysts from Vostock Capital has prepared a report on hydropower development projects in the Balkans.

Request the full list of investment projects:
http://www.hydropowerbalkans.com/en/request-the-full-list-of-investment-projects/

Among the major investment projects:

Kosinj/Senj development project (Republic of Croatia)

Project envisages reconstruction of the Sklope HPP and the construction of new facilities: the Kosinj reservoir (vol. 330 mil m3), the Kosinj HPP (33.7 MW) and the Senj II HPP (380 MW). Additionally, several tunnels and canals are to be constructed. The compensation basin will be enlarged with a new basin to ensure additional volume of ca 2.1 million m3. The estimated investment is EUR 500 million and the envisaged construction period is 7 years.

Cebren and Galiste HPPs (Republic of Macedonia)

The Macedonian government has decided to set up a working group to provide recommendations on the construction of the Cebren and Galiste HPPs. The project is estimated to cost EUR 220 million, and the HPPS will have capacity of 333/347MW and 193.5MW, respectively.

Vrilo HPP (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

EPHZHB held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Vrilo pumped-storage hydropower plant on the Šuica sinking river near Tomislavgrad on 16 July 2018. The Vrilo pumped-storage hydropower plant to be built in an investment worth EUR 89.1 million, is designed to have two units with a total installed capacity of 66 MW, with operations planned to begin in 2023.

Request the full list of investment projects:
http://www.hydropowerbalkans.com/en/request-the-full-list-of-investment-projects/

Please note that these and other investment projects will be highlighted at the 2nd International Summit and Exhibition “Hydropower Balkans 2018” (November 6-8, Budva, Montenegro).

If you would like to participate in the summit as a sponsor, exhibitor, speaker or delegate, or if you have any comments, please contact me on the details below

Join the Open Discussion on new hydropower hot spots – Caspian, Central Asia, Latin America and the Balkans

Event: Open Debate Hydropower Caspian and Central Asia, Balkans, Latin America
Date: 16 October, 2018
Venue: Gdansk, Poland, 17:30-19:30
Organiser: Vostock Capital

Open Debate Hydropower Caspian and Central Asia, Balkans, Latin America will be held on October 16, 2018 in Gdansk, Poland.

Sufficient hydro resources make Caspian, Latin America, Central Asia and the Balkans regions the most promising emerging hydropower markets. While the industry in these regions offers great opportunities, it also comes with complex challenges and risks that vary significantly depending on region, country, type and scale of projects.

Join the debate to provide yourself with information on new hydropower hot spots – Caspian, Central Asia, Latin America and the Balkans for free:
https://www.hydropowercongress.com/en/debates/

The Proposition: This house believes that new hydropower hot spots are not in Central Europe

During the debate you will:

Get the updates on the world’s emerging hydropower hot spots
Equip yourself with the information about flagship investment projects in Caspian, Central Asia, Latin America and the Balkans
Discuss the most significant issues, challenges and risk in hydropower industry of these regions
Explore the opportunities and prospects to gain a tangible advantage for your company to work in these new emerging markets

Official website: https://www.hydropowercongress.com/en/debates/
Contact: Milana Stavnaya, Project Director
E-mail: MStavnaya@vostockcapital.com
Tel. +44 207 394 30 90 (London)

Registration: https://www.hydropowerbalkans.com/registration/
Website: https://www.hydropowerbalkans.com
Contact Person: Milana Stavnaya, Forum Director
Email: MStavnaya@vostockcapital.com
Tel: +44 207 394 3090

Get the free report on investment projects for the construction and modernisation of Hydropower Plants

Prior to the 2nd annual International Summit and Exhibition “Hydropower Balkans 2018”, Vostock Capital team of analysts has conducted a research on the investment projects for the construction and modernisation of Hydropower Plants in the Balkan region, which covers:

List of the most promising investment projects of the region (construction and modernization of large and small HPPs)
Criteria for selection of technologies and equipment by heads of HPP operators
Innovative developments and technologies which will help in the development of hydropower projects
Analytics of Balkans hydropower market and many other important results for industry development.

Request the investment projects report here: https://bit.ly/2MBROqQ

The research involved over 200 respondents, including the chief executives and lead specialists at generating companies, operators of hydropower projects, suppliers of latest technologies, equipment and services, regulators and financial institution officials, investors, consultants, and independent experts of the energy market.

As a reminder, this report is prepared in the run up to the second edition of the international Summit and Exhibition “Hydropower Balkans 2018”, held in Budva, Montenegro, on November 6-8, 2018.

For Immediate Release
Press Contact:
Ammaar Murtaza Moosa
M: +971 55 245 4466
E: ammaar@flagshipme.com

(A Division of Flagship Events LLC)
PO Box 25980,
Office 108, Oasis Centre,
Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE
Tel: + 971 4 380 5556 | Fax: +971 4 380 5509
www.flagshipme.com

TMS Awards secures royal patronage

Dubai, 1st August 2018: For the fifth year in a row The Maritime Standard (TMS) has secured the royal patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group. Sheikh Ahmed is one of the leading business leaders in the region, and for almost three decades His Highness has been at the forefront of Dubai’s economic development, spearheading the successful expansion of the aviation sector and, more recently, formulating economic, investment and fiscal policies and strategies in support of the emirate’s long term vision. He also chairs the important Executive Authority for Expo 2020.

Managing director Trevor Pereira says, “We are once again honoured, and humbled, by the willingness of His Highness to extend his patronage to the TMS Awards 2018. The wise leadership of the UAE has made the growth and development of maritime sector one of its priorities. It is testament to this commitment that such an influential and prominent business leader is fully supportive of the Awards. Securing this patronage goes a long way to raising the profile of region’s maritime industry overall and gives added gloss to those honoured at the Awards.”

The TMS Awards 2018 take place at Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai, on Monday 15th October. Details can be found on the website www.tmsawards.com. As well as the winners of the various award categories chosen by an elite, and highly experienced independent judging panel, there will once again be a few, very special awards presented by The Maritime Standard team for outstanding individual contributions. In total around 28 awards will be presented on the night.

Image Caption: H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group

Editor’s Note: About The Maritime Standard

The Maritime Standard (TMS), publishes a regular e-newsletter aimed specifically at the shipping and maritime community. It is delivered fortnightly, on the 1st and 15th of every month. It delivers the most accurate, up-to-date news about the market and has built up the largest readership of any shipping-related online newsletter in the Middle East and India. It is also gaining popularity in other major shipping hubs, including Oslo, Hamburg, Singapore, London and Greece. The newsletter includes news and analysis from the shipping and ports industries and related sectors in the Middle East and the Indian Subcontinent. Topics that are covered include tanker shipping, container operations, dry and liquid bulk trades, ro-ro, and cruise shipping. In addition there is up to date information about regional terminal operations; port development; classification; ship repair and conversion; shipbuilding; ship agency; finance and insurance; maritime law; and transportation & logistics. The newsletter regularly carries exclusives, analysis and interviews with top executives.

TMS also publishes the very successful TMS UAE Yearbook. The first 2016/17 edition was followed by a second volume covering 2017/18, that was launched in July last year. Covering key developments across the country’s maritime sector, the annual publication aims to publicise the UAE’s achievements both locally and internationally, through in depth articles, researched first hand. These cover all the major sectors of the shipping, ports and maritime industry in the UAE. The articles, on terminals, shipping companies, shipyards, maritime law firms, classification, regulators and inland transport firms, among others, have been well received by the industry as a year round reference point. The Maritime Standard UAE Yearbook 2017/18 is a must-read publication for everyone interested in UAE maritime issues, and can be downloaded by going to: http://www.themaritimestandard.com/uae-yearbook- 2017-18

Preparations for the 2018/19 issue are well underway and this will be published in the summer of 2018.

Website: www.themaritimestandard.com

The not-to-be missed The Maritime Standard Awards recognise and celebrate success in the shipping, ports and related sectors across the Middle East and the Indian Subcontinent. The fifth edition of TMS Awards will take place on Monday, on 15th October 2018 at The Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai.

The Awards are now positioned as one of the world’s leading shipping and maritime Awards gala dinners and are the premier event of their kind in the region. All of the four events to date have been held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, and have each attracted close to 700 of the region’s elite shipping and maritime professionals, as well as a number of leading figures from overseas. These guests have come from a variety of industry segments, ranging from ports and terminal operators to ship owners and managers, and executives from the worlds of maritime law and finance, classification, ship building and repair and maritime education and training.

For the inaugural event in 2014 PR guru, journalist and writer Alastair Campbell performed as master of ceremonies, while in 2015 Dutch soccer legend, Ruud Gullit compered the event and in 2016 former CNN news anchor, Jim Clancy, was on stage to lead proceedings.

The 2017 TMS Awards event, which was hosted by the well-known actress and model, Lara Dutta, saw 20 general awards presented, following the recommendations of an elite, independent judging panel, as well as a number for special individual awards recognising the contributions made by high profile industry leaders and innovators. The Awards have set a benchmark within the industry and have become an eagerly anticipated meeting place for top executives from across the business, where they can meet, network and create new opportunities.

Website: www.tmsawards.com

The third Maritime Standard Tanker Conference will be held on 16th October 2018 at Atlantis, the Palm, Dubai. Attendees will include key decision makers and opinion formers who were able to discuss the challenges and opportunities that exist, not just for ship owners and operators active in the tanker markets, but those delivering products and services to this sector. The second TMS Tanker Conference took place on 24th October 2017 at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Dubai. Presentations were given by many of the region’s leading tanker owners and operators, as well as experts in related fields. For more information about the 2018 event, which is at an advanced planning stage, please go to the website: www.tmstankerconference.com

The fourth Maritime Standard Ship Finance and Trade Conference will be held on 6th November 2018 at Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort. The Conference will bring together experts from the fields of shipping, ports, banking, finance, trade and maritime law, among others, to discuss and debate the key issues and trends facing the shipping business, and trade, in the Middle East and the Indian Subcontinent. The third TMS Ship Finance and Trade Conference took place at the Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel and Resort, on November 8th 2017, building on the success of the first two events, held in 2015 and 2016 respectively. Speakers shared their insights and knowledge through a series of presentations and panel discussions, signposting the way forward. For more information about the 2018 event, please go to: www.tms-shipfinanceandtrade.com

Date: November 6-8 2018
Venue: Budva, Montenegro
Organiser: Vostock Capital

Event: 2nd annual International investment Summit and Exhibition “Hydropower Balkans 2018”

2nd annual International investment Summit and Exhibition “Hydropower Balkans 2018” (6-8 November 2018, Budva, Montenegro) is a dedicated platform bringing together ministers, major investors, decision-makers of flagship hydropower plants, and investment project initiators, as well as regulators, in a concerted effort to efficiently execute key projects for HPP construction and modernisation all over the Balkan region. Bronze sponsors: VOITH, AndritzHydro.

Among VIP guests and speakers 2017:

Ljupcho Nikolovski, Minister, Ministry of agriculture, forestry and water economy of Macedonia
Andrei-Petrison Maioreanu, Secretary of State, Ministry of Energy of Romania
Agron Hetoja, CEO, Albanian Power Corporation KESH
Izet Žigić, President of the Supervisory Board, Power utility of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Martyn Osborn, Technical Director for Energy, WBIF
Željko Ratkovic, Director of Department of Investment, Power utility of Republic Srpska
Ivan Bulatovic, Executive Director, Crnogorski elektroprenosni sistem AD (CGES)
Reiner Dietmar, Managing Director, VERBUND Renewable Power GmbH
Irena Ratkovic Malbasa, Director, Zagreb na Savi and many others.

Among participants 2017:
Albanian Power Corporation (KESH), ANDRITZ HYDRO, Bulgarian National Electric Company (NEK), Crnogorski elektroprenosni sistem (CGES), EFT Group, Electricity Power Distribution Operator (OSHEE), Elektroprivreda Republike Srpske (BiH), HSE Invest, Macedonian Powerplants (ELEM), Montenegrin Electric Enterprise (EPCG), Pöyry Energy, VERBUND Hydro Power, Zagreb na Savi, Stucky and many others.

Programme Highlights 2018:

Balkan greenfield projects with 2019-2025 implementation period: Albania, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia, Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, Bulgaria, Romania and Kosovo
Energy Ministerial Meeting on international cooperation and effective implementation of the investment projects in the Balkans
Onsite visit to one of the most progressive HPPs in the Balkan region – explore effective project execution strategies!
Meeting the investors: project initiators will discuss collaboration opportunities with international investors within prescheduled meetings
Leaders’ debate: Single region implies consolidated energy market! Projections of governments, initiators and investors. Finance and investment landscape
Case studies from companies, successfully carrying out their projects for HPPs’ construction and modernization across the region
Tailor-made session and exclusive exhibition: innovative solutions and equipment in the context of greenfield and brownfield development
Unparalleled networking opportunities: gala dinner, exhibition, champagne roundtables, and face-to-face meetings
FAST AND EFFICIENT! Roadshow of breakthrough technologies and equipment

Website: www.hydropowerbalkans.com
Contact person: Forum Director Milana Stavnaya
Email: MStavnaya@vostockcapital.com
tel. +44 207 394 3090

July 17, 2018

TMS celebrates its 100th edition

Dubai, UAE, 17th July 2018: The Maritime Standard published on July 15th this year is the 100th edition of the online newsletter. The first issue was published in June 2014, and from the beginning TMS set out to meet the shipping industry’s need for fast, accurate information about developments in ports and shipping related businesses in the Middle East and the Indian Subcontinent.

In the four years since its inception TMS has grown to become a market leading brand in the region, and one with a global reputation. The newsletter has earned respect as a source of accurate news and the market benefits greatly from the information it gathers together and distributes.

Please click here or on the image below to read the full press release

March 14, 2018

The 3rd Global Rail IT & Security Congress 2018

According to the Rail Transit Blue Book 2017, until the end of 2016, the mileage for the Chinese railway operation is about 22 thousands kilometers, account for about 65% in the world; the Chinese RT operation length reach 4153km, taken the first place in the world. The operation mileage of Chinese railway and urban rail, the mileage of high speed railway and urban rail under construction also became the top of the world.

With the background of intelligence and informatization, the 3rd Global Rail IT & Security Congress 2018 will be held in shanghai with the theme ‘Interconnected, Digital Driven, Cloud Computing the Future’.

Read the full press release

March 14, 2018

The Maritime Standard Awards 2018 maintains winning formula

The Maritime Standard Awards (TMS Awards) 2018 will take place at the Atlantis, The Palm, on 15th October this year. This is the fifth year in a row that the Awards and gala dinner have been staged at this fabulous, iconic venue.

While TMS is sticking to the same winning formula that have made past Awards so hugely successful, the company is certainly not resting on its laurels. Trevor Pereira, managing director, says, “The Awards are now recognised as being the leading maritime awards event in the region, and one of the top worldwide. The partnership we have built with The Atlantis is a significant part of the success story, ensuring that the setting is suitably prestigious and high quality, and we are delighted to be able to confirm that we will be returning here again this year. But while we have a tried and tested operation, we are not complacent, and we will be going all out to make sure that the TMS Awards 2018 are bigger and better than ever before.”

Read the full press release

February 19, 2018

The Krk Island LNG Debate at CEE Gas 2018

In December, the European Union granted 101.4 million euro ($126.1 million) to support the construction of the offshore LNG terminal on Krk island. It is designated an EU Project of Common Interest. Additionally, the Croatian government has declared the project of strategic importance to the region. This is significant as it gives the project priority and pushes for early completion.

The development of the offshore LNG terminal supports the key objectives of the Energy Union as it will promote further integration of the internal energy market and enhance security of supply. The terminal is set to secure the energy needs of the region and reduce dependence on Russian gas by securing new supplies for Central and South-Eastern countries.

Miguel Arias Cañete, EU Commissioner for Climate Action and Energy stated that “this investment will not only allow for the supply of natural gas to Croatia and Hungary; it will also increase the diversification of energy sources of Central and South-Eastern Europe and give an economic lift to the region.”

Read the full press release

January 17, 2018

GCC Needs US $131 Billion In Power Investment Over Next Five Years, States Power Show Report

Regulatory Framework Identified As Private Sector Incentive

Dubai, UAE – 17 January 2018: A new report from Middle East Electricity (MEE), the region’s leading annual international trade event for the power industry, states the GCC requires a combined US $131 billion worth of investment in electricity generation, transmission and distribution over the next five years to cope with increasing demand from growing populations, expanding economies and climatic changes.

The report, ‘GCC Power Market’, reveals that despite the GCC’s current power-generating capacity of 157 Gigawatts (GW) – which equates to 43 per cent of all Middle East and North Africa capacity – its six states will still require US $ 81bn investment for another 62 GW of increased capacity and US$ 50bn for additional transmission and distribution.

Saudi Arabia accounts for the largest spend needs with US $36bn required for generation and US $23bn for transmission and distribution, followed by the UAE at US $22bn investment needed for generation and US $13bn for transmission and distribution. Kuwait requires the third largest investment with US $8.4bn needed for generation and US $5.2bn for transmission and distribution, followed by Oman at US $6.8bn and US $4.2bn respectively, Qatar requires US $5.5bn and US $3.4bn respectively, with Bahrain needing the least investment level at US $1.9bn and US $1.1bn.

Read the full press release

January 16, 2018

Billions of dollars are being spent in Dubai to retrofit buildings

Retrofitting is the new money spinning investment.
Dubai’s Etihad ESCO announced in 2017 that they are planning to implement up to US$ 43.56 million worth of projects this year, diversifying beyond building retrofits into industrial retrofits and solar power projects – ESCO has awarded the tender in May 2017 for the development and installation of solar photovoltaic systems at 640 villas for UAE Nationals in Hatta.
Hosted and strategically endorsed by: Etihad ESCO and Taqati, The 4th annual RetrofitTech Dubai Summit & Awards will once again gather over 45 industry experts to discuss, debate and find innovative ways to deliver on the UAE’s retrofit programme for buildings. The summit will be held on 10-11 April 2018 at Roda Al Bustan Hotel, Dubai, UAE.
Click Here to read the full Press Release