The latest figures show that over 366 mill dwt of vessels are now registered with the classification society, some 21% of the world’s entire classed fleet, more than any other classification society, according to Clarkson’s data.
Despite a global decline in new orders, the number of newbuildings joining ClassNK continued to grow, with the society welcoming newbuildings totalling over 16 mill gt to its register in 2014, or more than 25% of all newly built tonnage last year.
ClassNK Chairman and president, Noboru Ueda, said: “At ClassNK, we believe that nationality is not relevant to our customers. Shipowners and operators around the world select their classification society on the basis of the services delivered. These figures represent not only the growth of our organisation, but also the trust we have gained from the maritime industry through consistently providing quality services.”
As ClassNK’s register grows increasingly international, so does its R&D activities. With significant contributions towards maritime R&D, ClassNK is working with industry partners throughout Asia, Europe, and the Americas on a wide variety of joint R&D projects, focusing on the safety of ships,, protecting the marine environment, and developing technologies that enhance efficiency for the benefit of the entire maritime community.
“As an independent, non-profit organisation we are able to invest all of our profits back into improving our services and providing the maritime industry with innovative solutions. We respond to our clients’ needs and when these needs change, our strategy is to adapt and invest to meet that change. We are always looking for ways to address new challenges, as well as enhance and expand our existing range of services and the maritime community has responded to this by continuing to choose ClassNK,”Ueda concluded.