Ilia Tsonos has been appointed as the regional director of the Norwegian classification society DNV in China, effective from July 1, 2026, a move seen as particularly important for the Greek shipping community. As Greek shipowners have been increasingly active in Asian shipyards, Tsonos's deep technical and operational knowledge is expected to further bolster the Greece-Asia connection. He will oversee Quality, Health, Safety, Environment, and Production activities in close collaboration with shipyards, shipowners, and expert teams.

With over 20 years of experience across China, South Korea, Japan, Greece, and Norway, Tsonos brings robust expertise in regulatory compliance and quality assurance. His long-standing presence in Asian shipyards is viewed as a critical advantage, ensuring that DNV's operations are well-aligned with the complexities of the region's maritime landscape. The Greek shipping sector, which plays a vital role in global trade, will likely benefit from this leadership appointment, as it seeks to maintain and expand its reach in one of the world's most dynamic maritime markets.

Overall, this development signals a strengthening of Greece's maritime interests in Asia, with a seasoned professional at the helm to navigate the intricacies of the industry. Tsonos's role is anticipated to foster enhanced collaboration between Greek stakeholders and Asian counterparts, underscoring the significance of international partnerships in the maritime domain.