IBIA Unveils 2026 Board Election Results: Global Leaders Take the Helm

The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) has announced its 2026 Board election results, appointing four global leaders to navigate the industry through the full phase-in of the EU ETS and the shift toward alternative fuels. Effective April 1, the new board will prioritize global decarbonization pathways, the mandatory rollout of Mass Flow Meters (MFM), and digital Bunker Delivery Notes (BDN) to enhance market transparency.

London | February 9, 2026 – The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) has officially announced the results of its 2026 Board of Directors elections. The announcement was made during the association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), held today at the prestigious Grosvenor House Hotel in London, just hours before the industry’s flagship Annual Dinner.

In a highly competitive election that saw eleven candidates vying for just four available seats, the global membership has selected a diverse group of experts to steer the association through a period of immense regulatory and technological change.

The Newly Elected Leadership

The following four professionals have been elected or re-elected to serve a three-year term on the IBIA Board, effective April 1, 2026:

• Claudia Beumer (C4 fuel B.V.): A vocal advocate for fuel quality and sustainability.
• Gianmichele Campanella (Fratelli Cosulich Monaco Sam): Bringing deep operational and trading expertise from one of the industry’s most storied groups.
• Calvin Chung (CPN – Chimbusco Pan Nation): Representing the vital Asian market and large-scale supply operations.
• Nigel Draffin (Consultant and Lecturer): A legendary figure in the bunker industry and long-time educator, returning to provide his unrivaled technical guidance.

“The breadth and diversity of the candidates who stood for election reflect the strength of IBIA’s global reach,” the association stated. “We extend a heartfelt thank you to all members who participated in this vital democratic process.”

The 2026 IBIA Board

Starting April 1, the IBIA Board will be composed of 16 high-level representatives from across the maritime energy value chain:

A Critical Mandate for 2026

The newly constituted board enters its term at a defining moment for the bunkering industry. With 2026 marking a sharp escalation in GHG compliance costs, including the full phasing-in of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), the leadership will be tasked with representing the industry at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and beyond.

Key priorities for the board will include:

• Decarbonization Pathways: Supporting the transition to low and zero-carbon fuels like Methanol and Ammonia.
• Digitalization: Overseeing the rollout of Mass Flow Meters (MFM) and digital Bunker Delivery Notes (BDN) to enhance transparency.
• Regulatory Advocacy: Ensuring that new environmental laws remain practical, enforceable, and fair for all global regions.

IBIA in Brief

The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) is the authoritative voice of the global bunker industry, representing all sectors and stakeholders across the marine fuels value chain.

• Founded: 1993
• Membership: Shipowners, charterers, bunker suppliers, traders, brokers, ports, regulators, service providers, and marine energy industry stakeholders worldwide.
• Mission & Role:
  • Foster collaboration and professionalism across the industry
  • Promote education and best practices
  • Uphold high standards of conduct
  • Provide a platform for discussion, guidance, and advocacy
• Engagement: Actively participates with other industry bodies, national and international policymakers, and legislators, including the International Maritime Organization (IMO), where IBIA holds consultative NGO status
• Global Forum: Offers a comprehensive platform to address challenges and opportunities in the bunker industry, ensuring the industry’s voice influences the future of marine fuels and maritime regulation
• Offices: UK, South Africa, Singapore

Source: International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA)