Akmar Shipping and Trading S.A. is a prominent maritime organization based in Istanbul, Turkey, recognized for its long-standing operations in the dry bulk sector. Established in 1987 by the Aksoy family, the company has maintained a continuous presence in the global shipping industry for nearly four decades. Under the guidance of its founder, Necdet Aksoy, the firm evolved from a regional maritime entity into an international ship owner and operator, conducting trade across major ocean routes.
The core of the company’s business revolves around the ownership and commercial operation of a modern fleet of dry bulk carriers. The fleet profile has effectively shifted over time to focus on efficient tonnage, currently featuring Supramax, Ultramax, and Kamsarmax vessels. These ships are utilized for the transportation of major bulk commodities such as iron ore, coal, and grain, as well as diverse minor bulk cargoes including steel products and cement. Operating primarily in the tramp shipping market, the vessels do not follow fixed liner schedules but rather navigate worldwide based on chartering demands, connecting raw material producers with industrial consumers across the Americas, Europe, and Asia.
In addition to ship owning, Akmar maintains a robust in-house management structure. This vertical integration encompasses technical supervision, commercial chartering, and crew management, allowing the shore-based team to oversee the safety and performance of the vessels directly. The company places significant emphasis on maintaining rigorous international safety and environmental standards, holding certifications for quality management systems since the late 1990s.
Beyond its deep-sea transport activities, the organization serves as a shipping agent within Turkey. The agency division provides logistical support and representation for vessels calling at Turkish ports or transiting through the strategic Turkish Straits—the Bosphorus and Dardanelles. This dual role as both a ship owner and a port agent provides the firm with a comprehensive perspective on maritime operations, bridging the gap between seagoing logistics and shore-based support. Through its sustained investment in tonnage and operational infrastructure, Akmar Shipping functions as a key entity within the Turkish merchant marine, facilitating the secure flow of international commerce.
