Australia’s maritime logistics sector is gaining stronger international representation with NSW Ports CEO Marika Calfas appointed Vice President of the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH) for Asia-Southeast and Oceania.
The appointment, announced at the IAPH Annual General Meeting in Kobe, marks a milestone for regional collaboration in port management and supply chain resilience.
The two-year term, running from 2025 to 2027, will see Calfas work alongside global counterparts to address issues such as decarbonisation, digitalisation and operational productivity – key areas of focus for ports navigating the complex demands of modern trade.
Calfas says she is honoured to represent the region’s ports and contribute to advancing the sector’s shared priorities.
“The IAPH brings together ports globally to collaborate on key challenges and develop industry best practice,” she says.
“I feel privileged to have been elected by member ports to represent our region.”
She adds that the appointment is an opportunity to highlight the region’s strengths and ambitions.
“Geographically, we cover a large area, but we share a common objective to make our supply chains resilient, sustainable and productive,” she says.
“This is a great opportunity to contribute to the industry’s global policy priorities and ensure South East Asia and Oceania’s interests are represented at the table.”
IAPH Managing Director Patrick Verhoeven says Calfas’ leadership will strengthen cooperation across one of the organisation’s most dynamic regions.
“We are honoured to welcome Marika as our Vice President for Southeast Asia and Oceania,” Verhoeven says.
“I look forward to working closely with her to strengthen IAPH’s membership across the region and to ensure that our members’ voices are well represented within our global network and with key institutional partners such as the International Maritime Organization.”
Ports Australia CEO Mike Gallacher also applauds the appointment, calling it a significant opportunity for Australian representation in the global port community.
“It’s now more important than ever to strengthen our connections to the global port sector, so we’re pleased to see Australia play a leadership role with the IAPH,” Gallacher says.
“Marika is a strong voice for our region, and we congratulate her on this significant appointment.”