Recap Mare Forum | 5th November

On Tuesday 5 November, the 23rd Mareforum was held in the Mainport Hotel in Rotterdam. The annual get together of the (Dutch) Shipping community was nicely timed on election day in the US, a good moment to debate the future challenges and opportunities for the Shipping industry. After the opening speeches of Ioannis Kostoulas (Mareforum), Erik Witjens (RMSC), Pieter Baan (ING) and Annet Koster (KVNR), the various attendants of the forum discussed in panels about global uncertainty, competitiveness of Europe, energy transition, human capital trends and the strategies of shipowners and capital providers in creating a balance between regulations and market realities. It was a good day full of exchanging views and networking.


Pieter Baan, ING and Treasurer of RMSC, had the honor of opening the day with an inspiring speech. He highlighted the crucial role of the shipping industry in global systems, underscored the challenges of the energy transition, and addressed the geopolitical and economic developments impacting the sector.

With topics such as sustainability, financing, and market trends on the agenda, Mare Forum 2024 provided a valuable platform for discussion and collaboration. RMSC reflects on a successful Mare Forum, where many members played an active role, and looks forward to continuing these important dialogues.