Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) is planning to establish a new office in Hamburg as it expands its presence in Europe. The German entity is currently being registered. The new office will give IRS a base in one of Europe’s major maritime centres. It will also help the classification society build closer ties with the German and wider European shipping industry. IRS expands European presence IRS is a full member of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS). It has also been recognised by the European Commission since 2016 under Regulation (EC) No. 391/2009. From Hamburg, IRS plans to work more closely with shipowners, ship managers and shipyards. The office will also engage with marine equipment manufacturers, technology companies and research institutions. “Hamburg is a natural strategic location for IRS as we strengthen our presence in Europe,” said Arun Sharma, Executive Chairman of IRS. Hamburg office to connect Europe with Indian maritime market Another focus will be connecting European maritime companies with India’s growing shipbuilding market. IRS plans to support manufacturers through approval, type approval, certification and compliance services. India is seeking to expand its shipbuilding and maritime manufacturing industries. According to IRS, this could create opportunities for European companies in technology partnerships, joint ventures and local production in India. The classification society sees particular potential in green shipping, alternative fuels, decarbonisation and digitalisation . Smart ship technologies are another area identified for future cooperation. Hamburg welcomes IRS expansion Hamburg Invest supported IRS during the establishment process. “The decision by the Indian Register of Shipping to establish a presence in Hamburg demonstrates the city’s attractiveness as a leading global hub for shipping and maritime services,” said Rolf Strittmatter, CEO of Hamburg Invest. He added that the new of