**Shipping Chamber Backs National AI Strategy**
The Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC) has expressed its support for the proposed national artificial intelligence (AI) strategy, following a recent meeting with Demetris Skourides, the Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation and Technology. The meeting took place at the chamber's offices, where Skourides presented the strategy to members of the CSC's Digitalisation Committee and solicited their feedback on the proposals.
The CSC has indicated its eagerness to collaborate with Skourides and the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy to ensure the effective implementation of the strategy. The Digitalisation Committee of the chamber is already engaged in examining technological advancements and communications that impact shipping companies and vessel operations. This includes the exploration of satellite communications between ships and shore facilities, as well as monitoring the work of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) on navigation, communication, and search and rescue operations.
The discussions surrounding the national AI strategy come as the public consultation period approaches its deadline of August 31. This strategy has been developed by the National AI Taskforce, which is chaired by Skourides and includes representatives from various sectors, including public, private, academia, and research institutions. The overarching goal of the strategy is for Cyprus to establish itself as a trusted AI hub in the eastern Mediterranean by 2032, positioning the nation as a European base for AI services that connect the EU with neighboring regions.
In the context of shipping, the draft strategy outlines ambitious targets aimed at enhancing operational efficiency. It proposes potential fuel savings of 10 to 20 percent and a reduction in maintenance costs by 30 to 40 percent through improved route planning, predictive maintenance, and the use of digital models for vessels. The proposed routing tools are designed to take into account various factors such as weather conditions, ocean currents, fuel prices, and vessel performance. Additionally, digital models would utilize sensor data to proactively identify maintenance needs, thereby preventing equipment failures.
The draft strategy also emphasizes the development of AI tools that would assist crews and operators in adhering to evolving regulations, enhance coordination between vessels and ports, and identify potential safety risks. To facilitate these advancements, the strategy proposes the creation of a shared maritime data space, which would enable companies to contribute anonymized datasets for AI training while safeguarding sensitive commercial information.
Moreover, the strategy envisions the supervised testing of autonomous surface vessels and drone inspections, with the establishment of a maritime center of excellence to support the testing and broader adoption of these technologies. Importantly, the strategy stipulates that qualified professionals will maintain final authority over decision-making processes, ensuring that safety, compliance, and performance standards are upheld.
While the proposed savings and efficiencies remain aspirational targets, the strategy lays out a comprehensive framework for the future of AI in Cyprus. Beyond the shipping sector, the government's broader AI framework includes eight strategic objectives aimed at enhancing productivity, improving public services, strengthening skills, ensuring secure data infrastructure, and promoting accountability in AI usage.
Skourides has previously articulated the guiding principle of the strategy, emphasizing that "AI must serve people. People must remain in control." He underscored that preparing Cyprus for AI entails more than merely acquiring technology; it requires a societal understanding of how to effectively use and critically evaluate AI systems. To this end, the strategy includes measures for professional training, reskilling, and practical support for employees, businesses, and public servants.
As the public consultation period continues, businesses, professional organizations, researchers, and citizens are encouraged to submit their comments via the government's e-consultation platform until August 31, 2026. The Deputy Ministry has committed to reviewing these submissions and integrating relevant feedback into the final version of the national AI strategy.
The CSC's endorsement of the national AI strategy marks a significant step in the ongoing dialogue about the future of technology in Cyprus, particularly within the shipping industry, as stakeholders seek to harness the potential of AI to drive innovation and operational efficiency.