The much-anticipated World Maritime Technology Conference (WMTC), a triennial global event under the auspices of the World Maritime Technology Congress, is set to commence on December 4th and run until December 6th in Chennai, India. This marks the return of the prestigious conference to Indian shores after a gap of 15 years, with the last edition hosted in Mumbai.
The WMTC has consistently drawn significant participation from the global maritime sector. The previous conference, delayed by the pandemic, was held in Copenhagen in April 2022. Past host cities also include Shanghai, Houston, and St. Petersburg.
This year’s theme resonates deeply with the challenges of our time, focusing on the rapid technological disruptions of the last 15 years and their impact on global shipping and trade. Key topics like climate change, sustainability, geopolitical dynamics, and their implications for the maritime industry will take center stage during the three-day forum.
The conference will open with a grand inauguration on the afternoon of December 4th, with Shri R.N. Ravi, Honourable Governor of Tamil Nadu, expected as the Chief Guest. Dignitaries such as Shri Shyam Jagannathan, Director General of Shipping; Shri Arun Sharma, Executive Chairman of the Indian Register of Shipping; Nikolaus Schues, President of BIMCO; and Dr. Stanly Johny, International Affairs Editor at The Hindu, will also grace the occasion.
Panel discussions on the opening day promise to provide insightful discourse, with sessions like The Poseidon Senate and The White House, moderated by Tim Wilkins of INTERTANKO and David Loosley of BIMCO, respectively. These panels will feature prominent business leaders from the maritime sector.
An exclusive evening session with renowned author and mythologist Mr. Devdutt Pattanaik will cap the first day, followed by a formal dinner.
The second and third days will delve into a wide array of topics covering technical, commercial, and market issues, ensuring comprehensive engagement for all attendees.
Adding a recreational touch, delegates can participate in a golf tournament on December 3rd at TMGF, with Lt. General K.S. Brar, GOC Dakshin Bharat, as the Guest of Honour.
The valedictory session on December 6th will feature Vice Admiral G. Srinivasan as Chief Guest and Shri Amitabh Kumar, former Director General of Shipping, as Guest of Honour.
The organisers have expressed their gratitude to the Government, the many organisations, and the members of the press who have come forward to support this event. Their contributions have been instrumental in making it possible to host an event of this scale at the prestigious Leela Palace Hotel in Chennai.
With its diverse agenda and prominent speakers, WMTC 2024 is poised to be a landmark event for the global maritime community.
Marex Media
