Shanghai to Host World Marina Conference in 2027, a First for Mainland China
On March 29, 2026, the launch ceremony for the 2027 International Council of Marine Industry Associations World Marina Conference (IWMC) was held at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Center. Following the 2025 edition in Venice, this industry event will take place from March 30 to April 2, 2027, at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Center. This marks the first time the conference will be held in mainland China.
It is reported that the theme of the 2027 Shanghai conference has been set as "Global Connectivity, Waterfront Communities, Economic Growth". It is expected that over 500 industry leaders from around the world will gather in Shanghai. The conference will explore topics such as sustainable marina development, new energy technology applications, operational economic models, and driving forces of water tourism consumption.
Joe Lynch, CEO of the International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA), said: "Bringing this top-tier biennial industry event to Shanghai, ICOMIA is attracted by the city's vibrant waterfront economy, strong cultural support, and huge potential among young audiences."
Looking ahead to next year's conference, Lynch expressed great anticipation: "Shanghai is the primary gateway for international capital entering China and a strategic springboard for Chinese enterprises going global. The ICOMIA World Marina Conference will effectively promote the alignment of Asian marina standards with international best practices, thereby driving economic growth across the region. At that time, over 500 industry elites from around the world are expected to gather in Shanghai. Our delegates will span North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania, bringing together the most influential leaders in the industry to share cutting-edge insights. This will undoubtedly be a truly global event and will greatly promote the leapfrog development of Shanghai's waterfront leisure industry."
The International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) stated that Shanghai's selection to host this World Marina Conference reflects the growth of the Asian marine industry, including increasing interest in yacht tourism, water sports, and coastal lifestyles.
| Source: Xinmin Evening News; Marina World; ICOMIA Official Website
| Image Source: ICOMIA Official Website; CGTN