London International Shipping Week 2025: Navigating the Future of Maritime

Dates: 15-19 September 2025
Location: London, UK, at various venues across the city

What is London International Shipping Week (LISW)?

LISW is a major biennial gathering for the global maritime and shipping industry, bringing together leaders across ship-owners, regulators, ports, financers, insurers, environmental groups, legal experts and many more.

In its 12th edition this year, LISW is expected to host over 350 official events and functions. It is organised by Shipping Innovation, in cooperation with key bodies such as the Department for Transport, Maritime UK, the UK Chamber of Shipping, etc.

The format is a “cluster event” — there is no single exhibition hall, but rather events, panels, receptions, seminars and meetings spread through London.

Key Themes and Features for 2025

LISW25 builds on pressing industry challenges and opportunities. Key themes include:

• Decarbonisation & clean technology: The UK government and private sector are committing over £1.1 billion to maritime sector investments. This includes roughly £700 million in private capital for port infrastructure and industry development, and about £450 million of government funding, particularly earmarked for clean maritime technologies (via programmes like the UK SHORE scheme).

• Innovation, digitalisation & regulation: Topics such as the transition to alternative fuels, shore power, regulation of emissions, and workforce/skill development are high on the agenda.

• Workforce and human capital: Understanding how to retain and attract talent in shipping; dealing with an aging workforce; making the sector more diverse and future-proof.

• Safety, navigation, and standards: For example, panels such as “S-100 in focus” (about new navigation data standards) are part of the programme.

• Policy, diplomacy, and global connections: Many countries and shipping registries are using LISW25 to promote their maritime policies (e.g. Greece and Cyprus are stepping up presence), their regulatory frameworks, or to negotiate partnerships.

Major Events & Highlights

Some of the standout events for LISW25 include:

• Headline Conference at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) headquarters.

• Maritime Forecast to 2050 report launch by DNV, at IET London on 16 September.

• “S-100 in focus” panel hosted by UKHO (UK Hydrographic Office), exploring new standards in navigation and charting

• Various networking functions, receptions and cultural/social events (e.g. gala dinners, river showcases).

Why It Matters

• Economic Impact: The investments being announced can unlock growth especially in port infrastructure, green tech, workforce development, and coastal communities. The sector is central to UK trade and logistics.

• Environmental & Regulatory Turning Point: With global pressure to reduce carbon emissions and meet net-zero targets, the shipping industry is under increasing scrutiny. LISW offers a platform for innovation and policy alignment.

• Networking & Influence: Because decision-makers from around the world congregate in London, it’s one of the few moments where regulations, finance, technology, and operations all converge. Those who engage can shape international norms.

• Visibility for Smaller Players: Beyond the large companies, there are opportunities for smaller firms, start-ups, tech innovators, and niche service providers to gain exposure.

Challenges & Things to Watch

• Implementation of new environmental targets will require not only funding but also consistent regulatory frameworks internationally.

• Ensuring that workforce development keeps pace with change (automation, digital skills, green tech).

• Balancing commercial interests with environmental, safety, and community concerns.

• The geopolitical dimension (e.g. registries, trade routes, supply chain resilience) will continue to play a role.

Where to Find More Information

• For the official programme and list of events: LISW official website

• For detailed articles on the funding announcement: see Lloyd’s List, “LISW 2025 opens with $1.4bn UK maritime pledge” Lloyd’s List

• For background and FAQs: LISW FAQs page lisw.com