Dmitry Afonin

Foremost Group

Foremost Group is an American shipping company with offices in the United States and Asia. Founded in New York in 1964 by Dr. James S.C. Chao and his late wife, Mrs. Ruth Mulan Chu Chao, the company today is a global leader in the dry bulk shipping industry and has earned a worldwide reputation for its commitment to exceptional service and performance while always holding itself to the highest ethical standards. For over 50 years, Foremost Group has maintained its core values – honor, integrity and performance – as the ingredients for success. It has earned its sterling reputation from partners, including charterers, banks, shipyards and others, for its faithful devotion to Foremost Group's mission statement: "Our mission is to remain a premier provider of ocean transportation services and a model of excellence for our industry." Foremost Group is an industry leader in incorporating fuel-efficient designs and technology in its fleet of modern and eco-friendly dry bulk carriers. The company ships more than 15 million tons of goods, including a wide variety of dry bulk products including grains, soybeans, iron ore, coal and other similar products, around the world for its blue-chip clientele every year. Foremost ensures the highest-quality service by exclusively managing ships that have been built to its high standards and specifications. Foremost does not manage second-hand or third-party ships. Since its founding, Foremost Group has incorporated eco-friendly designs and technology in the company's fleet which today includes some of the world's largest and most eco- friendly bulk carriers. This is in keeping with Dr. Chao's steadfast belief that treating the environment with respect is not only a good business practice, but also a solemn responsibility. Foremost Group is proud to have an industry-leading track record on environmental issues for over 50 years.