Professional associations of any area promote the development of the industry, drafting common standards, recommendations, normalizing relations with government agencies of any level, and representation of the interests of the industry internationally. The marine industry is no exception. It features with the fact that “marine industry” comprises the complex of various areas of activity – from shipbuilding and ship-repair to navigation, provision of operation of vessels, ports, and so on. Companies join by some clear characteristic or on the basis of some sphere of activities.

It can be an association of sea ports, shipmasters or forwarders. Ship-owners and pilots, marine underwriters and agents also associate. Some alliances succeed in protection of interests of the industry and make some changes. The declaration of ship pilotage in the Sea of Azov optional and exemption of passing and moorage in water areas from the water tax base are examples of such success. These and other changes are the result of the activity of the Association of Shipping Companies and other industry organizations.