On the one hand Smart Shipping has the potential to transform the fundamentals of ship operation, with digital technology and big data driving radical new solutions up to and including autonomous ships.

But on the other what does the industry actually want from these new technologies, how real are the efficiencies they offer and what changes to the regulatory framework would be needed prior to significant implementation?

The Parliamentary Debate held on 29 October at Seatrade Maritime Middle East in Dubai will be chaired by leading maritime lawyer Jasamin Fichte, Managing Partner of Fichte & Co.

Speaking for the motion are: Khalid Hashim, Managing Director, Precious Shipping, Ali Shehab Ahmad, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Kuwait Oil Tanker Company (KOTC) and Captain David Stockley, Chief Operating Officer, Oman Ship Management Company.

On the side against the motion are: René Kofod-Olsen, Chief Executive Officer, Topaz Energy and Marine, Oskar Levander, Senior Vice President Concepts & Innovation, Rolls Royce Marine, and Ronald Spithout, President, Inmarsat Maritime.

So is the industry ready or not to embrace smart shipping? There is only one way to find out – attend the debate, listen to the arguments, and then as the parliamentarians (audience) you vote on which side wins the debate.