Dr. Ivan Tabone

Dr. Ivan Tabone serves as the Registrar General of Shipping and Seamen for the Merchant Shipping Directorate at Transport Malta. A legal professional with a deep background in maritime law, he has built a career defined by a steady rise through the ranks, having previously served as the Head of the Seafarer Department and Deputy Chief Officer within the Directorate.

Dr. Tabone holds a Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Malta and a Master's degree in International Maritime Law from the IMO International Maritime Law Institute (IMLI). His leadership is characterized by a "human-centred" philosophy that emphasizes the practical intersection of regulatory compliance and commercial agility. Under his guidance, the Malta Ship Registry has focused on strengthening its compliance culture and digital transformation, aiming for a balance between growth and the maintenance of high safety and environmental standards. Beyond his domestic duties, he is a familiar voice in international maritime circles, representing Malta's interests at forums such as the IMO, the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), and the International Labour Organisation (ILO).