The UK Chamber of Shipping and Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) have signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance collaboration and coordination on key issues impacting the cruise industry in the United Kingdom.

From 12 October 2025, the EU will begin introducing its Entry/Exit System (EES), a digital system to replace manual passport stamping to Schengen borders for short-stay visitors.

Director of External Affairs, Stef Kenyon rounded out conference season for the year this week, representing the UK Chamber at the Conservative Party gathering in Manchester.

In contrast to the buoyant atmosphere in Liverpool, Manchester’s event was more subdued and scaled-down, yet still offered valuable opportunities to engage with MPs, Shadow Ministers, and stakeholders on the evolving priorities of the Conservative Party and their implications for the maritime industry.

The leaders of 7 shipping associations, including the UK Chamber of Shipping, have called for IMO adoption of the Net-Zero Framework (NZF) at the crucial vote in October in a statement released to media. The statement highlights that anything else would be a major setback for the green transition, and risk leaving the industry with an unwieldy patchwork of regional climate regulations.

After a typically eventful few days in Liverpool, Number 10 appears to have viewed the conference as, on balance, a success for the Labour Party. Following positive reactions to the Prime Minister’s speech on Tuesday, it also provided a much-needed boost for the Labour leader after a tumultuous year since he last addressed the party faithful beside the Mersey.

Beyond the headlines and soundbites, the conference offered valuable insights into the priorities of the newly reshuffled ministerial teams—particularly on key agendas for the maritime industry. Director of External Affairs, Stef Kenyon, shares some of the highlights and discussions below.

Paper Training Record Books (TRBs) will begin to be phased out and relaunched as a digital app this year, bringing a host of additional benefits to seafarer cadets, instructors and employers.

The UK Chamber of Shipping has welcomed Keir Mather MP to his new role as Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Transport, following confirmation that he will take on responsibility for Maritime and Aviation within his ministerial brief.

In a landmark move to strengthen the UK’s maritime and tourism sectors, the UK Government, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), and the UK Chamber of Shipping have jointly launched the UK Cruise Growth Plan.

The UK Chamber of Shipping has published a major new report by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr), confirming the UK’s position as one of the world’s most competitive maritime nations.