Bright Prospects for India’s Maritime Sector at INMEX SMM India 2023

The INMEX SMM India, the largest maritime exhibition and conference in South Asia, unfolded in Mumbai from October 4 to 6, 2023. The Indian shipbuilding industry is experiencing a robust boost due to evolving global supply chains and heightened demand from the Indian navy and coast guard.

The event concluded on a successful note on October 6, featuring bustling exhibitor stands, engaging conversations, insightful conferences, and the establishment of numerous business connections. Over the course of three days, approximately 8,300 industry professionals and 250 exhibitors convened, exchanging information and perspectives on key maritime sector topics. The expansive 4600+ square meter floor of the Exhibition Centre housed not only exhibition stands but also served as a venue for conferences. Among the prominent themes discussed, the decarbonization of shipping took center stage, reflecting the industry’s commitment to sustainability. Another focal point of discussions was the considerable business potential within the Indian market, with forecasts anticipating a 25% growth in the next five years. The Indian government’s support for the expansion initiatives of domestic shipyards further underscored the positive outlook.

Exhibitors and visitors alike expressed a high level of satisfaction with INMEX SMM India 2023. Claus Ulrich Selbach, Business Unit Director of Maritime and Technology Fairs & Exhibitions at Hamburg Messe und Congress, noted the event’s exceptional scope, quality, variety, and attendance, emphasizing its surpassing of expectations.

The international presence was notable, with national pavilions prominently featured at the Exhibition Centre. The German delegation, comprising around 15 exhibitors, exceeded the participation levels of 2019. Notable companies like Mecklenburger Metallguss, SKF Marine, and JOWO Systemtechnik were among those making the journey to India. Positive sentiments were shared by Ronald Hoppmann, CEO of WISKA, who highlighted the event as the best maritime trade fair in India since their first exhibition 14 years ago. Similar enthusiasm was echoed by Christos Papakis, Executive Director at the Greek Suppliers Association HEMEXPO, representing the Greek joint stand.

Encouraged by the positive feedback, the organizers are gearing up for a more extensive international participation in 2025, introducing national pavilions representing countries such as The Netherlands, Denmark, and Norway. Claus Ulrich Selbach, impressed by the dynamic growth of the Indian market, anticipates further evidence of India’s ascent in the global maritime sector at SMM in September 2024.

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