Korean Marine Equipment Eyes European Shipyards
The Korean shipbuilding industry, which saw a significant surge in global ship orders during the first half of this year, is now making its mark in the European market. With a growing demand for Korean marine equipment in Europe, domestic companies are targeting the market with a focus on decarbonization and AI solutions.
Partnership at SMM 2026 Exhibition
From September 1st, the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) collaborated with the Korea International Trade Association to organize the “Korean Pavilion” at the SMM 2026 (Hamburg International Shipbuilding, Machinery and Marine Technology Exhibition) in Germany. Over four days, ten domestic marine equipment companies showcased their products and engaged in export marketing activities targeting European shipyards, shipping companies, and equipment distributors. SMM is Europe’s largest specialized exhibition for shipbuilding and marine equipment, attracting companies from 70 countries.
Focus on Future Vessel Technologies
The exhibition highlighted future vessel technologies such as energy efficiency, electrification, alternative fuels, and AI. European shipyards, known for their expertise in constructing large cruise ships and naval vessels, are showing interest in Korean eco-friendly and smart technologies to address challenges like a shortage of skilled workers due to an aging workforce. Similar demand was evident at the Posidonia exhibition in Greece earlier this year.
Companies in the Korean Pavilion showcased their expertise in vessel management, navigation automation, automatic control, and safety management products. They differentiated themselves by incorporating digital technologies into equipment categories where they excel, such as valves, engines, and piping components. KOTRA facilitated approximately 300 B2B consultations during the exhibition.
The European shipbuilding industry values technological capability, supply chain stability, and long-term business relationships. A procurement head from a German shipbuilding company highlighted the importance of supply chain stability and transitioning to AI to address skilled labor shortages. Korean companies were praised for their expertise in integrating digital technologies into their products, leading to potential collaborations.
Representatives from Korean companies expressed their interest in establishing long-term partnerships with European firms. KOTRA plans to provide continued support post-exhibition, including consultations, sample testing, and joint development initiatives based on the leads generated.
Kim Yeon-jae, head of KOTRA’s Europe Regional Headquarters, emphasized the growing global demand for eco-friendly shipping, AI adoption, and supply chain diversification. Korean companies are encouraged to seize opportunities in the European market in addition to the United States and ASEAN markets with support from KOTRA.
