The global shipping industry is entering a new era shaped by the concepts of low emission targets, digitalization and sustainable financing.he global shipping industry is entering a new era shaped by the concepts of low emission targets, digitalization and sustainable financing. During this transformation process, Europort Rotterdam 2025, which is considered one of the most important meeting points of international cooperation and innovation, is preparing to guide the future of maritime transportation with the theme of “Innovation in Maritime and Global Cooperation”. The fair, which will be hosted by Rotterdam Ahoy, will showcase the innovative vision of the sector in the topics of energy transformation, digitalization, ship financing and human resources, bringing both manufacturers and decision makers together on the same platform.The fair, which will be hosted by Rotterdam Ahoy, will showcase the innovative vision of the sector in the topics of energy transformation, digitalization, ship financing and human resources, bringing both manufacturers and decision makers together on the same platform. We discussed the strategic vision of Europort 2025 with Ahoy Rotterdam Director Raymond Siliakus and Ahoy Turkey Director Esin Göksel, the cooperation opportunities it offers to the sector and the rising role of the Turkish maritime industry in the fair.

While the maritime sector is being reshaped with low emission targets and digital transformation dynamics, the thematic structure of Europort 2025 reflects this transformation. How was the thematic framework of Europort 2025 determined?

Raymond Siliakus: Europort 2025 is driven by technological transformation and sustainability trends in the global maritime industry. In this period when geopolitical developments are reshaping maritime transport, we've tailored our exhibition program to meet the industry's long-term needs. This year, we're focusing on four main themes: Energy Transition, Digitalization, Ship Finance, and Human Resources. Through these themes, Europort aims to both make innovations visible and shape the future of the industry together.

The main theme of this year not only highlights technological developments but also sustainable cooperation models in the global maritime ecosystem. What will be the contributions of the theme “Innovation and Global Cooperation in Maritime” to the sector?

 Raymond Siliakus: This theme represents the essence of Europort. Held in Rotterdam for over 80 years, the fair is a platform that accelerates innovation, facilitates collaboration, and promotes sustainability. The phrase "Maritime Innovation and Global Cooperation" symbolizes a vision where actors from diverse geographies unite towards the same goal. As SEA Europe Secretary General Christophe Tytgat emphasized, as decarbonization and digitalization transform the industry, Europort is positioned as a key collaboration platform supporting tangible progress.

Data-driven systems, autonomous technologies and artificial intelligence are being placed at the center of operational efficiency. Europort has designed special areas that make this transformation visible. What kind of contribution will Europort 2025 make in this period when digitalization, artificial intelligence and automation come to the fore?

Raymond Siliakus: Digital transformation in maritime is now an inevitable reality. That's why we've dedicated the Digitalization Zone in Hall 6 entirely to this topic. The "Smart Stage" presentation area hosts panels on artificial intelligence, data-driven operations, automation, and cybersecurity. Designed in collaboration with SeasHorizons, this area brings together a broad audience, from ship operators and technology startups to port authorities and regulatory bodies, to showcase how digital innovation is reshaping maritime.

“Energy transformation is at the center of the fair.”

Decarbonization has become one of the most critical priorities for maritime transport, in line with IMO targets. Europort 2025 brings innovations in this area to the global stage. How are energy transition and low-carbon technologies being addressed at Europort 2025?

Raymond Siliakus: The energy transition is at the heart of this year's fair. Sessions on the "Green Stage" will address the impact of decarbonization on the industry and alternative fuel technologies. The "Safe Maritime Decarbonization Seminar," organized by the Maritime Technologies Forum (MTF), will share preliminary findings from MTF's new report and showcase innovative solutions for low-to-zero emission shipping. Our goal is to ensure that environmentally friendly technologies are not only theoretically supported but also commercially implemented.

“Sustainable ship financing is no longer a choice, it is a necessity.”

Green ship investments and sustainable financing are becoming a key component of the industry's long-term growth strategy. How will ship financing and the Ship Finance Pavilion contribute to the industry?

Raymond Siliakus: Sustainable ship financing is no longer a choice; it's a necessity. In this context, the Mare Forum Ship Finance Conference is being held for the 24th time, concurrently with Europort. The Ship Finance Pavilion in Hall 5 will provide information and consulting on financing, ship loans, and incentive opportunities. This allows both investors and shipowners to learn directly from experts about the financial sustainability of new technologies.

Strategic partnerships are as important as technological innovation in the global maritime supply chain. MariMatch serves as a bridge that accelerates these collaborations. How does MariMatch, Europort's B2B matchmaking program, support international collaborations?

Raymond Siliakus: MariMatch Europort is a platform organized by the Enterprise Europe Network and focused entirely on fostering collaboration. After registering, participants can schedule online appointments and then meet face-to-face in a dedicated hall during the fair. This system fosters new partnerships by connecting technology providers from different countries with shipbuilding and subcontractor companies. These meetings, which result in concrete agreements every year, are supported by the Euro.

"The intense interest in Europort 2025 shows that the Turkish maritime sector has now become more visible and competitive in the global arena."

Türkiye has been attracting global attention in recent years with its production capacity in shipbuilding and its subsidiary industries. This potential is being transformed into a powerful representation at Europort 2025. What is your assessment of Turkey's growing participation in Europort 2025?

Esin Göksel: Turkey has gained significant momentum in maritime and shipbuilding in recent years. This year, with the support of GYHİB and GISBİR, a total of 74 Turkish companies are participating, with individual stands and the Turkish Pavilion. This is the highest Turkish participation in Europort's history. Our exhibitors' innovative solutions align with their sustainability vision. This intense interest demonstrates that the Turkish maritime sector has become more visible and competitive in the global arena.

“Turkish companies are particularly strong in the areas of new construction, maintenance and repair, supply and service.”

The Turkish maritime industry, with its solutions in energy efficiency, maintenance and repair, and digital procurement, directly aligns with Europort's core themes. What are your thoughts on the innovations and sustainability approaches of Turkish companies highlighted at the fair?

Esin Göksel: Turkish companies are particularly strong in new construction, maintenance and repair, supply, and service. They offer a wide range of products, from subcontractors to energy efficiency solutions. The solutions developed by our companies directly align with Europort's energy transformation and digitalization themes. This year's participation also means Turkey strengthens its position in Europe in green transformation and digital innovation.

Global collaboration, knowledge sharing, and technology transfer are among the most important factors enhancing the competitiveness of the Turkish maritime sector. How would you summarize Europort 2025's long-term contribution to the Turkish maritime sector?

Esin Göksel: Europort is not just an exhibition; it's a platform for knowledge sharing and international collaboration. It serves as a strategic bridge for our Turkish exhibitors, providing access to European, North African, and Far Eastern markets. Furthermore, Europort's principles of "thought leadership, partnership, and sustainability" align with the long-term growth goals of the Turkish maritime industry. We believe the 2025 exhibition will contribute to both our companies' export strategies and Turkey's position within global maritime networks.