Ports & Customs Week: Uniting Africa’s Trade and Customs Ecosystem through Innovation
In a rapidly evolving global trade landscape, Ports & Customs Week emerges as a vital event dedicated to tackling the complexities of cross-border trade, port modernization, and customs digitalization across Africa. This premier regional platform focuses on the technological, operational, and financial challenges impacting trade and logistics, while also encouraging dialogue and innovation among key stakeholders.
Set against the backdrop of Africa’s expanding trade networks, the event brings together an influential mix of policymakers, private sector players, and global experts to foster collaboration and introduce transformative solutions that strengthen the region’s ports and customs systems.
Connecting Stakeholders Across the African Trade Ecosystem
One of the standout features of Ports & Customs Week is its capacity to bring together an impressive range of participants from across the trade, logistics, and infrastructure spectrum. This inclusive gathering promotes cooperation between both public and private sectors and facilitates knowledge sharing to improve operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.
Participating sectors and organizations include:
Ports and Customs Authorities
Transport and Infrastructure Ministries
Trade and Investment Departments
Revenue and Finance Ministries
Freight Forwarders and Shipping Lines
Logistics Providers and Maritime Agents
Banks, Importers, Exporters, and Technology Providers
The event fosters direct engagement through roundtables, keynote sessions, live demonstrations, and breakout workshops—ensuring participants walk away with practical insights and new opportunities for collaboration.
Promoting Innovation Through Digitalization and Modernization
With the increasing complexity of global supply chains, Africa's ports and customs systems are under pressure to evolve. Digital transformation is at the heart of this change, and Ports & Customs Week is positioned as the leading stage for showcasing how digital tools can revolutionize customs clearance, border management, cargo tracking, and port infrastructure.
The show focuses on areas such as:
Integrated Customs Management Systems (ICMS)
Smart port infrastructure and automation
Blockchain for trade documentation and traceability
AI and predictive analytics for customs and border operations
Cloud-based logistics and cargo tracking platforms
This wave of digitalization offers enormous potential to reduce clearance times, cut down on manual errors, improve compliance, and enhance overall transparency in trade operations.
Key Themes and Discussion Tracks
The event's agenda is carefully curated to address pressing issues while offering forward-looking perspectives on African trade. From streamlining port procedures to building public-private partnerships, the sessions aim to cover a wide spectrum of real-world challenges and policy implications.
Topics covered include:
Climate-resilient port infrastructure
Financing mechanisms for port and customs modernization
Digital identity and e-documents for trade security
Cross-border data sharing and coordination
Risk management and cargo inspection technologies
Between sessions, attendees can network with global experts, explore exhibitor innovations, and participate in live demonstrations to see how theoretical solutions work in practice.
Special Feature: Border Security Week Co-location
An exciting addition to this year’s event is the co-location of Border Security Week, which further expands the scope of dialogue. This collaboration emphasizes the intersection between trade facilitation and national security, offering attendees a unique opportunity to explore the synergies between customs operations and border control.
Topics under this segment include:
Integrated border security technologies
Biometrics and access control
Threat detection systems
Cross-border crime prevention frameworks
This segment highlights not just technical solutions but also policy models and operational best practices that can be replicated or adapted by various African countries to improve their own systems.
Enhancing Regional and International Collaboration
Ports & Customs Week also serves as a diplomatic and commercial bridge, facilitating cooperation between African nations and international stakeholders. The event promotes mutual understanding, shared standards, and collective strategies that help harmonize port and customs regulations across the continent.
This goal is supported through:
Bilateral and multilateral talks
Regional panel discussions
Stakeholder feedback sessions
Cross-sector working groups
By promoting harmonized digital systems and common customs frameworks, the event helps pave the way for faster trade corridors and more predictable international transactions.
Why Ports & Customs Week Matters
In an age defined by supply chain disruptions, geopolitical uncertainty, and rising consumer expectations, Africa’s ports and customs systems are being challenged to adapt—and quickly. Ports & Customs Week offers a timely and targeted solution: a space where visionaries and practitioners come together to drive practical, impactful change.
Here are just a few reasons why the event holds immense value:
Facilitates multi-sectoral collaboration on complex trade challenges
Highlights scalable innovations already in use across Africa and globally
Strengthens the continent’s position in global trade dialogues
Enables partnerships that drive investment and modernization
Empowers local stakeholders with actionable knowledge and new tools
A Forward-Thinking Platform for African Trade Evolution
As the region continues its journey toward integrated, digitalized trade ecosystems, Ports & Customs Week is poised to be a transformative event. It not only reflects Africa’s growing role in global trade but also emphasizes the need for smarter, faster, and more transparent port and customs operations.
From cutting-edge technologies to high-level policy dialogues, the event covers every facet of the modern trade environment. Whether you are a decision-maker, logistics provider, financier, or infrastructure developer, this is the forum to shape the future of African ports and customs together.
Mari-Tech Conference & Exhibition: Steering the Future of Sustainable Marine Transportation
In an age where environmental sustainability and technological advancement are driving the maritime industry forward, the Mari-Tech Conference & Exhibition emerges as a pivotal event for professionals navigating the future of marine transportation. This annual gathering has grown into a vital platform for dialogue, innovation, and strategic planning, offering insight into some of the most pressing issues facing the marine engineering community today.
Recognized across Canada and internationally, Mari-Tech is not just another industry event—it’s a collaborative space where experts from private companies, government agencies, and academic institutions converge to shape the future of marine transportation. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and efficiency, the conference encourages open dialogue and actionable ideas in an increasingly competitive global environment.
A Unique Forum for Collaboration Across the Marine Sector
What sets the Mari-Tech Conference apart is its reputation as a neutral, non-governmental platform. This neutrality has allowed it to cultivate deep trust across multiple sectors of the marine industry. As a result, Mari-Tech has built an extensive network of stakeholders, encompassing hundreds of organizations that value cooperation, expertise, and shared responsibility for the future of maritime operations.
Attendees benefit from a well-rounded mix of perspectives, as the event brings together:
Engineers and technical specialists
Policy makers and regulatory officials
Shipping and transportation executives
Academic researchers and students
Environmental and sustainability consultants
This diverse mix ensures that discussions remain dynamic, relevant, and rich in real-world application.
Focused on the Future: Addressing Challenges Through Innovation
The maritime industry is no stranger to challenge. From supply chain disruptions and international competition to tightening environmental regulations and the looming pressure of climate change, marine operations are evolving rapidly. The Mari-Tech Conference & Exhibition directly addresses these issues by offering a curated space to explore sustainable solutions and long-term strategies.
Key topics regularly explored at the event include:
Greener propulsion systems – Including alternative fuels, electrification, and hybrid technology.
Ship design and optimization – Reducing emissions through smarter engineering and automation.
Marine workforce development – Preparing engineers and operators for future demands.
Resource management – Balancing operational efficiency with environmental responsibility.
Digital transformation in shipping – Leveraging data, AI, and IoT for improved performance.
Each session, workshop, or panel discussion is designed to not only inform but also inspire. Attendees leave with actionable insights and the tools they need to adapt and thrive.
Connecting 500+ Professionals in Canada’s Marine Engineering Community
The Mari-Tech Conference is not only influential—it’s impactful. Every year, more than 500 professionals from Canada’s marine engineering and industrial community come together to share knowledge, challenge conventions, and forge new paths forward. The event’s scale ensures that participants have access to a rich network of contacts and opportunities for collaboration that extend well beyond the conference walls.
Whether you're a startup focused on marine technology or a veteran shipbuilder looking to modernize operations, the audience at Mari-Tech includes the key players who can help you expand your reach, refine your strategies, and build lasting partnerships.
Exhibition Hall: A Showcase of Innovation and Expertise
Complementing the educational sessions and panels is the Mari-Tech Exhibition Hall—a vibrant space where industry leaders, technology developers, and service providers unveil their latest solutions. Exhibitors range from emerging tech startups to well-established marine equipment manufacturers, offering a wide spectrum of innovations that meet the evolving needs of the maritime sector.
Visitors to the exhibition can expect to explore:
Advanced navigation and propulsion systems
Energy-efficient marine engines and components
Environmental monitoring and control technologies
Maritime safety solutions and compliance tools
Training simulators and educational services
The exhibition is not only an opportunity to view cutting-edge technology firsthand but also a chance to speak directly with developers and engineers, ask questions, and build productive business relationships.
A Non-Governmental Platform with a National Impact
Mari-Tech’s role as a neutral, industry-led conference allows it to serve as a unique catalyst for real change. Without political bias or commercial dominance, the conference succeeds in fostering open discussions that reflect the full spectrum of views across the marine engineering community.
This open framework makes the conference especially valuable for:
Sharing best practices between private and public sectors
Informing policy decisions with real-world insights
Connecting academic research with industry implementation
Facilitating knowledge transfer between generations of engineers
It’s this commitment to inclusivity and balance that has earned Mari-Tech its respected position within the Canadian marine sector and beyond.
Why Attend Mari-Tech? The Value for You and Your Organization
The Mari-Tech Conference & Exhibition is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a strategic investment in your professional growth and your organization’s future. The knowledge gained, the connections formed, and the ideas exchanged at the event have real, long-term value for companies and individuals alike.
By participating, you’ll benefit from:
Networking with 500+ marine engineering professionals
Exposure to the latest sustainable technologies and practices
Direct engagement with regulators, suppliers, and innovators
Access to thought leaders and industry veterans
Involvement in shaping the future of Canadian maritime operations
Whether you're attending as a delegate, speaker, or exhibitor, your voice matters—and your participation can help shape the direction of an industry undergoing transformation.
Final Thoughts: Where Innovation Meets Responsibility
As the global maritime sector navigates change at every level, the Mari-Tech Conference & Exhibition remains a beacon of thoughtful leadership and collaborative progress. It’s where sustainability meets innovation, and where engineering excellence is both showcased and advanced.
For anyone with a stake in marine engineering—from policy and technology to operations and environmental planning—this is the event that brings the entire ecosystem together under one roof.
Port & Terminal Technology: Driving Global Innovation in Port Operations and Infrastructure
In the ever-evolving world of maritime logistics and port operations, few events match the influence and technical depth of Port & Terminal Technology. Now entering its fourteenth year of successful operation in the United States, this high-calibre, international conference continues to solidify its place as one of the must-attend gatherings for professionals in the port, terminal, and cargo handling sectors.
Tailored specifically for those working in operations, maintenance, and engineering, the event consistently delivers a dynamic blend of technical presentations, industry analysis, and targeted networking opportunities. Attended by a global audience of maritime experts, it offers a deep dive into the complexities and innovations shaping port infrastructure, cargo efficiency, and sustainable operations.
A Focused Event for Maritime Operational Excellence
Port & Terminal Technology is not your typical broad-spectrum trade show—it is a targeted, content-rich conference designed for key stakeholders in port and terminal development. The two-day format ensures intensive knowledge sharing and direct engagement with the latest trends, challenges, and strategies facing the maritime logistics industry today.
The event brings together:
Port authorities and terminal operators
Maritime construction and engineering firms
Dredging contractors and consultants
Cargo handling equipment manufacturers and suppliers
Specialists in port automation and terminal operating systems
Environmental and infrastructure planning experts
With a clear focus on technical insights, operational improvement, and sustainable growth, the conference is structured to foster meaningful dialogue among practitioners who are shaping the future of port performance worldwide.
Comprehensive Technical Program with Industry Leaders
One of the defining features of Port & Terminal Technology is its robust and diverse technical program. Each year, the event hosts more than 24 high-impact presentations delivered by some of the world’s leading experts and companies in the maritime industry. These sessions go beyond surface-level discussion, offering attendees actionable insights and advanced technical understanding.
Key areas of focus in recent conferences have included:
The growing impact of larger vessels on port infrastructure
Optimizing Terminal Operating Systems (TOS) for greater control and visibility
Implementing cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive port data
Applying simulation and modeling to improve cargo handling systems
Driving port automation and digitization strategies
Navigating environmental regulations and improving port sustainability
Visioning the future of smart port design and operation
Each session is carefully curated to reflect the challenges and opportunities facing container ports and terminals globally, ensuring relevance for every participant.
The Power of Practical Knowledge Sharing
What sets Port & Terminal Technology apart is its dedication to practical, high-value knowledge exchange. While many conferences offer broad overviews, this event drills down into real-world applications, technologies, and engineering strategies that attendees can take back to their own ports and terminals.
The presentations are specifically geared toward:
Increasing productivity in cargo handling
Enhancing the reliability and scalability of port operations
Improving integration between port hardware and software
Reducing turnaround times and minimizing bottlenecks
Supporting infrastructure investment decisions with data-backed insights
This commitment to technical depth is one reason why the conference maintains strong loyalty among past attendees, and continues to attract an audience of over 200 seasoned professionals from across the globe.
A Specialized Exhibition That Fosters Connection
In addition to its powerful conference program, Port & Terminal Technology also features a boutique exhibition, allowing delegates to meet with solution providers, discuss potential projects, and witness the latest innovations in cargo handling and terminal operations.
Exhibition benefits include:
Hands-on product demonstrations
One-on-one meetings with vendors and technical experts
Showcasing of new technologies and service capabilities
Exposure to niche suppliers not typically seen at broader trade shows
Because of its smaller, more focused scale, the exhibition complements the educational aspects of the event while enabling high-value networking in an efficient and professional environment.
Emerging Themes That Shape Port Development
Each year, Port & Terminal Technology evolves to include topical, forward-looking themes. These emerging topics reflect the fast pace of change in the maritime logistics world, where ports are now expected to be digitally enabled, sustainable, and globally competitive.
Current and anticipated focus areas include:
The Digital Port – Leveraging IoT, AI, and data analytics to create intelligent, connected port environments.
Sustainable Engineering – Reducing carbon footprints through energy-efficient design and green technologies.
Automation and Robotics – Integrating autonomous equipment for safer, more reliable operations.
Resilience and Redundancy – Building infrastructure that can withstand global disruptions and climate events.
Cyber-Physical Integration – Securing the convergence of operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT).
By placing these themes at the forefront of its agenda, Port & Terminal Technology ensures attendees walk away with a deeper understanding of the forces reshaping their industry.
Who Should Attend?
This event is specifically designed for technical professionals, engineers, and operational leaders in maritime environments. If you're involved in managing or designing container ports, terminals, or cargo handling systems, this is an ideal platform for advancing your expertise.
Ideal attendee profiles include:
Port and terminal engineers
Maintenance and operations managers
Maritime consultants and project planners
Cargo equipment developers
Port authorities and infrastructure regulators
Environmental and sustainability officers
For these professionals, the conference provides not just insight—but a roadmap to technical innovation and smarter infrastructure development.
A Must-Attend Event for Technical Maritime Professionals
Port & Terminal Technology continues to earn its reputation as a high-value, technically rich conference that delivers on its promise of practical expertise, strategic networking, and forward-thinking discussion. It serves as a unique space where professionals can come together to shape the next chapter of global port operations.
With its diverse and respected lineup of speakers, deep technical content, and carefully curated exhibition, the event is an essential calendar fixture for anyone serious about driving improvement in port efficiency, sustainability, and engineering excellence.
Algiers Maritime Forum: Shaping the Future of Maritime Trade and Logistics
The Algiers Maritime Forum, organized by Global Trade Support, stands as one of the most prominent conferences in the maritime industry, drawing attention from key stakeholders and enthusiasts in logistics, transportation, and trade. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Algiers, Algeria’s bustling capital, this event is positioned as a key player in the world of maritime trade and logistics, not only within the region but on a global scale.
Scheduled to take place at the Hotel Mercure Alger, the forum provides an unparalleled opportunity for maritime industry leaders to convene and explore pressing issues and opportunities in the sector. The forum brings together experts, thought leaders, and stakeholders from around the world, offering a platform to discuss innovations, challenges, and solutions that impact maritime logistics and trade.
As the global economy continues to evolve, the importance of maritime activities in facilitating international trade remains undeniable. This event reflects the growing significance of the maritime sector in the region, further solidifying its pivotal role in enhancing trade networks, shaping industry trends, and influencing the future of global logistics.
A Premier Gathering for Maritime Experts and Enthusiasts
The Algiers Maritime Forum attracts a diverse range of participants, including industry professionals, government representatives, logistics companies, port authorities, and technology innovators. The event is designed to foster collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and strategic partnerships that will drive the future of the maritime sector.
What to Expect at the Forum
Insightful Presentations: Renowned experts and thought leaders will deliver dynamic presentations on the latest trends and emerging technologies in the maritime logistics and transportation fields.
Round Tables and Panel Discussions: These sessions offer an opportunity for in-depth discussions on the most pressing issues facing the maritime sector today, including sustainable shipping, digital transformation, and port modernization.
Networking Opportunities: The forum features structured networking sessions where attendees can connect with industry peers, forge new relationships, and find potential business partners or suppliers.
Exhibitor Showcases: Participants can explore the latest innovations in maritime logistics, transportation technology, and port infrastructure through exhibitor displays and product demonstrations.
In this immersive environment, attendees will gain access to cutting-edge knowledge and tools that will enable them to tackle current challenges and leverage new opportunities in the maritime sector.
Highlighting Maritime Logistics Trends and Innovations
As the global shipping industry continues to adapt to challenges such as sustainability, digitization, and geopolitical dynamics, the Algiers Maritime Forum provides a vital space for industry professionals to share insights and solutions. Over the course of the event, key topics and emerging trends will be explored in depth, including:
Key Topics at the Forum:
Sustainability in Maritime Trade: Discussions will focus on the adoption of green technologies, cleaner fuels, and eco-friendly practices that can help reduce the environmental impact of the maritime industry.
The Digital Transformation of Shipping: From AI and automation to blockchain and big data, the forum will delve into how these technologies are revolutionizing the way goods are shipped, tracked, and delivered.
Port Modernization and Infrastructure Development: As global shipping volumes rise, ports around the world must evolve to handle increasing demands. The forum will address strategies for upgrading port infrastructure, improving efficiency, and increasing capacity.
Geopolitical Impacts on Maritime Trade: With changing trade routes, shifting alliances, and the rise of new economic powers, the forum will explore the evolving geopolitical landscape and its impact on global trade flows.
The Future of Supply Chain and Logistics: A closer look at how maritime logistics fits into the broader supply chain ecosystem, with a focus on optimization, collaboration, and resilience in the face of global disruptions.
Keynote Speakers and Experts:
Participants will hear from a range of renowned speakers, including maritime industry executives, government officials, and technology innovators, who will share their knowledge and experiences. These experts will provide valuable insights into the strategic and operational aspects of maritime logistics, offering guidance on how to navigate challenges and capitalize on new opportunities.
Networking and Business Opportunities
One of the most valuable aspects of the Algiers Maritime Forum is its focus on networking and business development. With a global mix of industry professionals, government representatives, and entrepreneurs, the forum serves as a fertile ground for new partnerships, collaborations, and joint ventures.
Networking Features Include:
Business Matchmaking Sessions: Pre-arranged meetings between buyers and suppliers to ensure that participants can find the right partners to meet their business needs.
Industry Round Tables: Smaller, intimate discussions where experts and stakeholders can dive deeper into specific issues, allowing for a more personalized exchange of ideas and solutions.
Exhibition and Product Demos: Attendees can engage directly with exhibitors showcasing the latest in maritime logistics technology, port solutions, and transportation services.
Whether you’re looking to expand your business, find new suppliers, or gain insights into the latest industry trends, the Algiers Maritime Forum provides the perfect environment to achieve these goals.
Why the Algiers Maritime Forum Matters
The Algiers Maritime Forum is more than just a conference—it’s a symbol of Algeria’s growing influence in the global maritime and logistics sector. As a key strategic location linking Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, Algeria has long been an important player in international shipping routes. The forum underscores the country’s commitment to improving its maritime capabilities and enhancing its position in global trade networks.
The Significance of Algiers in Maritime Trade:
Strategic Location: Algiers, with its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, plays a central role in shipping routes connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Port Development: Algeria has been investing heavily in the modernization of its port infrastructure, positioning itself as a hub for transshipment and maritime trade.
Growing Influence: The forum’s growing importance reflects Algeria’s increasing role as a key player in the global maritime trade and logistics landscape.
The Future of Maritime Trade Starts Here
The Algiers Maritime Forum is a vital meeting point for the maritime community, offering cutting-edge insights, business opportunities, and strategic discussions that will shape the future of the sector. With its blend of knowledge sharing, networking, and innovation, the forum serves as an essential platform for anyone involved in the world of maritime logistics and trade.
As the maritime industry faces new challenges and embraces the latest technological advancements, the Algiers Maritime Forum stands as a beacon for collaboration and progress. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this important event and contribute to the growth and evolution of global maritime trade.
