The Council of Twenty is the Consulate of the Sea’s decision-making body, as set forth in article 3 of its regulations, composed of the President of the Chamber and twenty consuls:
- Nineteen consuls appointed by the Chamber’s Plenary Session, on the motion of the Executive Committee, all individuals of acknowledged repute in the Chamber’s industrial, commercial and service fields, ensuring that it represents the broadest possible range of business sectors.
- A twentieth consul who shall be the President of the Cereals Exchange, given its close historical ties of cooperation with the Consulate of the Sea
The term of office of the consuls is four years and they can be re-elected.
The council is chaired by the President of the Chamber of Commerce or, by his/her delegation, by the Senior Consul, chosen from among the members of the Council of Twenty.
The position of Secretary of the Consulate of the Sea is held by the General Secretary of the Chamber.