Ilias Tsonos has been appointed as the new Regional Director of DNV, the Norwegian classification society, for the wider China region, effective July 1, 2026. This appointment is notable for the Greek shipping community, as it reflects the increasing presence and influence of Greek shipowners in Asian shipyards. The strategic placement of Tsonos, who has over 20 years of experience across various countries, highlights the importance of strong leadership in fostering this international maritime relationship.

Tsonos is expected to enhance the Greece-Asia interconnection by overseeing crucial activities related to Quality, Health, Safety, Environment, and Production in collaboration with shipyards and shipowners. His extensive experience in Asia, particularly in countries like China, South Korea, and Japan, equips him with valuable insights into the operational dynamics and regulatory frameworks governing international shipping.

The significance of Tsonos's appointment goes beyond his individual expertise; it emphasizes the deep ties between the Greek shipping industry and Asia, particularly at a time when Greek shipowners are increasingly leveraging Asian shipyards for shipbuilding and other maritime services. This strategic alignment is likely to bolster the competitive positioning of Greek shipping in the global market, reinforcing the collaborative spirit between Greece and Asian maritime stakeholders.