Headquartered in Türkiye, TQ Group is a multifaceted maritime service provider. The company has three core divisions: ship ownership and management, ship repair, and ship agency. Fleet Manager Can Ibak, Agency Manager Taner Göksu and Repair Manager Ali Cem Akar discussed TQ Group’s end-to-end solutions. Report by Antonia Cole.
Since its establishment in 2018, TQ Group has grown steadily, Fleet Manager Can Ibak said: “TQ Group was founded on the core principles of trust and quality, which also form the basis of our company name. This commitment to excellence has guided the company as we have continued to diversify and expand.”
The group was founded with the launch of TQ Ship Repair, which was initially focused on domestic vessel maintenance. The division quickly scaled its operations to service a global portfolio, including clients from Germany, Poland, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Singapore and India. Currently, the repair division manages the maintenance, modernisation and survey requirements for an average of 40 vessels per year. These range from tankers and container ships to RO-RO and bulk carriers.
In 2022, TQ Ship Repair transitioned into the TQ Group. Ship ownership and management were integrated into the group’s service portfolio across three specialised entities: TQ Ship Management, HGF Denizcilik and EKA Ship Management.
“More recently in 2023, we established TQ Ship Agency,” added Mr Ibak. “This has enabled us to provide comprehensive agency services across all Turkish ports and straits. Currently, the group manages and operates vessels ranging from 3,750DWT up to 55,000DWT, trading worldwide. By coordinating between shipowners and local authorities, the agency ensures the efficient transit of our diverse fleet.”
Turnkey solutions
With TQ Group’s integrated structure, the group is able to provide comprehensive maritime solutions through a single, coordinated organisation. By offering ship repair, management and agency services, TQ Group streamlines communication and significantly improves efficiency.
“Clients benefit from a single point of contact, faster decision-making and practical solutions tailored to their operational needs,” explained Agency Manager Taner Göksu. “What sets TQ Group apart is our hands-on approach, strong technical expertise and our commitment to building long-term, trust-based relationships with our clients.”
The group has an experienced shore-based team that provides responsive operational assistance. This team supports the group’s diverse fleet of 12 vessels, which are operated under TQ Group’s three management arms. TQ Ship Management currently operates a fleet of five vessels with capacities between 3,750 and 20,000DWT. HGF Ship Management oversees four vessels ranging from 20,000 to 50,000DWT, where a dedicated technical team ensures safe and uninterrupted operations across global trading routes. EKA Ship Management, which provides full technical and compliance oversight for vessels owned by foreign principals, manages assets between 30,000 and 55,000DWT.
“Our growth in ship management reflects the group’s increasing focus on long-term asset management and operational excellence,” continued Mr Göksu. “Complementing this, TQ Ship Agency has achieved consistent operational volume, managing an average of 15 operations per month and totalling approximately 180 assignments annually. We are committed to providing customer-oriented solutions, flexibility and technical excellence while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.”
Fleet upgrades
To stay ahead of the evolving maritime market, TQ Group aligns its operations with international regulations and strict industry standards. To meet these sector requirements, the group focuses on the continuous development of its organisational structure and technological infrastructure. By combining modern technical systems with the expertise of its workforce, TQ Group guarantees that all operations remain reliable and efficient.
“Quality, safety and reliability are ensured through experienced personnel, systematic internal controls and proactive risk management covering operational, technical and environmental aspects,” commented Repair Manager Ali Cem Akar. “This makes sure we remain a resilient and competitive partner in the global industry.”
Environmental responsibility is also integrated into every layer of TQ Group’s operations. The group implements efficient environmental management systems and promotes sustainable practices across both its managed fleet and shore-based facilities. As well as this, TQ Group prioritises the wellbeing and development of its workforce. The group creates opportunities for professional training, allowing employees to build up their own skill sets. Through this, TQ Group aims to build a sustainable and responsible future alongside its employees.
“At TQ Group, we believe that sustainable success is built on long-term commitment, operational excellence and strong relationships,” added Mr Akar. “Our focus is not only on providing services, but also on acting as a reliable partner to our clients in every aspect of their maritime operations. Our vision is to be a leader in maritime innovation, constantly meeting customer expectations through our foundational values of trust and quality. As we continue to grow, our commitment to safe, high-quality operations will remain a priority.”
Strong partnerships
Going forward, TQ Group’s focus is on sustainable and competitive expansion. The group is planning to continue steadily growing its fleet whilst also enhancing its service portfolio. As a leading maritime services provider, TQ Group is committed to investing in modern tonnage and adopting the latest industry best practices. A key part of this includes investing in its people. By combining modern assets with a highly skilled workforce, the Group aims to solidify its market position while upholding its values of trust and quality.
“As a group, we are only as strong as the people within and around the business,” said Mr Ibak. “We build long-term relationships with suppliers based on transparency and mutual reliability. This collaborative approach enables us to consistently deliver reliable services and respond effectively to operational challenges. Working with trusted partners allows us to ensure that every project meets our high standards. These strong connections enable us to grow together and maintain stability in an evolving market.”
TQ Group chooses to work closely with selected partners that share its commitment to quality and operational excellence. Through these relationships, the group is able to respond effectively to the unpredictable challenges of the maritime industry. This provides clients with consistent and dependable services.
“Being directly involved in operational, technical and managerial decision-making within the maritime industry is highly motivating,” continued Mr Göksu, in conclusion. “The maritime industry is dynamic and constantly evolving. Solving real-time challenges and contributing to safe and efficient vessel operations makes each day engaging and rewarding.
“Our team is dedicated to maintaining high standards of service as we continue to navigate complex industry challenges and changes. By focusing on practical solutions and investing in our fleet and services, we are ensuring that TQ Group remains a maritime leader.”