Lookout Maritime chief executive discusses balancing regulatory frameworks and shipping's commercial realities

In his video interview at the conference, Mr Crawford-Brunt shared valuable insights into the complexities of maritime regulation.

Drawing from his extensive experience in explaining shipping regulations, Mr Crawford-Brunt discussed the friction that arises between the need for regulations that serve all sectors and stakeholders, and the commercial imperatives that often drive the shipping industry.

Mr Crawford-Brunt explained that while a “level playing field” is often pursued in regulatory frameworks, achieving this in practice is not always the ideal outcome.

"Creating a regulatory environment that equally suits all sectors and stakeholders is a challenge, and sometimes it is not the best solution for the industry," he said.

He underscored that commercial forces – such as profitability and market dynamics – can have a powerful influence on the way regulations are shaped and implemented.

His comments highlighted a key theme of the conference: the balancing act between regulatory frameworks and the commercial realities of shipping.

The shipping industry is often tasked with accommodating a wide array of competing interests, from environmental compliance to the demands of international trade

Mr Crawford-Brunt’s perspective on this friction resonated deeply with other panellists and delegates, sparking further discussions on how the industry can navigate this complex terrain.

At the heart of Mr Crawford-Brunt’s message was the recognition that while regulations play a critical role in shaping a sustainable future for shipping, they must also account for the economic drivers that make the industry viable.

He discussed how Lookout Maritime, through its advisory role, helps bridge these gaps by offering insights into how commercial and regulatory strategies can align.

His contribution to the panel was part of a broader conversation at the conference on how to ensure that regulations are both effective and realistic, without stifling innovation or market adaptability.

By examining the potential friction between the ideal regulatory environment and the practical realities of commercial shipping, Mr Crawford-Brunt added a critical voice to the ongoing dialogue about the future of maritime policy.

To hear more about Mr Crawford-Brunt’s thoughts on regulation and the challenges of creating a balanced shipping environment, watch the full interview.