Heiko M. Stutzinger, CEO of Hamburg Messe und Congress, welcomed the increase in participation this year, noting that the number of companies taking part has risen by 12 percent compared to 2022.
In video messages during the opening ceremony, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Federal Minister of Economics Robert Habeck highlighted the critical role of the maritime sector in the German economy and the global energy transition. Scholz emphasized the sector's innovative technologies and sustainable solutions, while Habeck pointed out its importance in achieving a carbon-neutral future as the backbone of international trade.
Key Maritime Players Were on the Stage
The opening panel featured prominent speakers from both the political and business spheres, including Alberto Maestrini from Fincantieri, International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez, German Maritime Coordinator Dieter Janecek, German Shipowners’ Association (VDR) President Dr. Gaby Bornheim, MAN Energy Solutions CEO Dr. Uwe Lauber, Hapag-Lloyd Fleet General Manager Cpt. Silke Lehmkoester, DNV Maritime CEO Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, and EU Commission DG Move Director General Magda Kopczyńska.
During the panel, VDR President Dr. Gaby Bornheim underscored the significance of the maritime industry, stating that over 50,000 merchant ships carry 11 billion tonnes of cargo each year. She raised concerns over the increasing threats to international trade routes due to escalating violence in the Red Sea and tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, calling for government action to ensure the security of shipping routes.
Magda Kopczyńska outlined the EU Commission's new measures to enhance maritime safety. Uwe Lauber, CEO of MAN Energy Solutions, reported positive progress in the shipping industry's energy transition, with more than half of new engine orders since 2023 being designed for future fuel technologies.
Hapag-Lloyd Fleet General Manager Silke Lehmköster noted that Hapag-Lloyd is modernizing its fleet, including converting vessels to dual-fuel propulsion. Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, CEO of DNV Maritime, emphasized the need for smart investments and strategic decisions to overcome the challenges posed by the limited availability of carbon-neutral fuels.
Alberto Maestrini of Fincantieri highlighted the European shipbuilding sector's strengths in high-tech innovation, which he believes will keep Europe ahead of competition from low-cost countries.
Magda Kopczyńska reaffirmed the EU's commitment to supporting the maritime sector, emphasizing the aim to enhance its sustainability, resilience, and competitiveness.
SMM Hamburg 2024 will continue with further discussions and presentations on the future of the maritime industry.
