The eighth annual Tripartite Dialogue took place on 8-9 November 2008 in CCS Headquarters, Beijing. Senior representatives from the three main sectors involved in designing and building ships (ship owners, shipbuilders and classification) attended the meeting, as well as those representing oil majors, P&I Clubs and regional shipping and shipbuilding organizations. 22 agenda items were discussed, covering regulatory development, environmenal, safety, operations, maritime labour issues and maritime economy. Tripartite Dialogue has been an international dialogue between ship owners, shipbuilders and classification societies focusing on proactive steps to benefit the safety of ships, the environment and the quality of life of the seafarer. The next Tripartite dialogue will be held in South Korea in Autumn 2009.