Shipping Industry Embraces AI and Sustainability
As the maritime sector prepares for a new investment cycle, global shipowners, shipyards, and suppliers are focusing on fleet efficiency, artificial intelligence, and sustainability. The latest SMM Maritime Industry Report (MIR), released ahead of the upcoming shipping exhibition in Hamburg, reveals a resilient industry despite economic challenges. The Maritime Industry Score indicates a continued optimism, standing at 50.5 points, even after a slight decline from last year’s score of 52.
Investment Readiness and Operational Challenges
The survey, conducted by Hamburg Messe und Congress (HMC) in collaboration with market research firm mindline, highlights a significant readiness for investment within the industry. Nearly half of the shipowners surveyed (48%) expressed that they are likely or very likely to order new vessels before 2026, marking the highest level of confidence since the survey began. This optimism is particularly evident among suppliers, who scored 64.6, while shipyards reached a record high of 49.9. In contrast, shipowners displayed more caution with a score of 34.4, reflecting ongoing uncertainties regarding fuel choices and regulatory compliance.
The report also identifies key operational challenges facing the maritime sector, including a shortage of skilled professionals, rising energy costs, and increasing bureaucracy. To address the labor gap, the Maritime Career Market at SMM 2026 will connect employers with young professionals. Sustainability and digitalization remain top priorities, with six out of ten respondents anticipating growing pressure to modernize fleets for enhanced energy performance. The demand for data-driven and AI-based solutions has surged, increasing by 13 percentage points since the last survey.
Focus on Reliability and Future Trends
The report underscores the importance of reliability in maritime operations, as suppliers emphasize a growing focus on after-sales services and long-term product dependability. Hauke Schlegel, CEO at VDMA Marine Equipment and Systems, noted that quality is becoming a critical success factor, as shipowners can no longer afford breakdowns, especially for essential systems like scrubbers and ballast water management.
The strongest intentions for new orders are concentrated in specific vessel categories, including containerships, roll-on/roll-off (roro) and passenger ferries, cruise ships, and naval tonnage. Klaus Borgschulte, shipyard manager and chairman of the SMM advisory committee, remarked on the impact of the volatile global political environment on the maritime industry, highlighting the challenges posed by ongoing conflicts.
The next SMM Hamburg exhibition is scheduled for September 1-4, 2026, and is expected to serve as a premier platform for innovation and collaboration among shipowners, shipyards, suppliers, and regulators in the maritime sector.
