SMM 2026 (Shipbuilding, Machinery and Marine Technology trade fair) will take place from 5-8 September 2028.
Image credit: SMM
As the world’s leading trade fair for the maritime industry, this event brings together over 2,200 exhibitors and 48,000 participants from across the globe. SMM provides a platform for innovation in shipbuilding, marine engineering, offshore systems, and digital technologies, as well as opportunities to engage in career development and global maritime discussions.
New for 2026 is all about ports, a dedicated conference and exhibition spotlighting the transformation of port operations toward climate-neutral and resilient models. This addition aligns with broader industry shifts toward sustainable practices and digital integration.
Further details will be announced soon. In the meantime, please refer to the previous event information below.
Themes
The event addresses core themes shaping the maritime sector’s future, including digitalization, sustainability, maritime security, career development, and port innovation. Theme routes will guide visitors to exhibitors focused on areas such as:
- Green shipping and decarbonization
- Digital technologies and AI in ship design and operation
- Maritime security and defense systems
- Career and recruitment in the maritime sector
- Innovations in passenger shipping and start-up ventures
What’s On?
SMM 2026 features a comprehensive program of exhibitions, conferences, and networking formats across its four days. Special areas include:
The Energy Efficiency Hub in Hall A2 presents technologies aimed at reducing emissions and improving energy performance, from digital optimization tools to alternative propulsion systems and carbon capture
Image credit: SMM 2024
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Maritime Career Market, held on 3–4 September, will return to Hall B2 with universities, companies, and institutions engaging students and professionals. Admission is free for school pupils, students, and accompanying teachers on these days, and informal networking events such as Wine o’clock and the Career Happy Hour add further engagement.
Start-ups@SMM, in Halls A3 and B6, will showcase early-stage companies contributing new ideas and approaches to the maritime economy. Participating start-ups must meet eligibility criteria, including being under five years old and independently owned.
SMM also introduces all about ports as a co-located event focused on the design and function of next-generation ports. This initiative combines exhibition space with high-level dialogue on port infrastructure and climate adaptation.
Speakers & Conferences
SMM 2026 will host several major conferences:
- TradeWinds Shipowners Forum – 1 September
- Maritime Future Summit – 2 September
- gmec – Global Maritime Environmental Congress – 2 September
- MS&D – Maritime Security & Defence Conference – 3-4 September
- Offshore Dialogue – 3 September
Each conference brings together industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and innovators to address critical topics such as artificial intelligence in ship design, environmental standards, maritime defense, and the long-term security of offshore infrastructure and energy systems.
Where is the Event?
Hamburg, Germany
To learn more about SMM 2028, to register to attend or exhibit, please click below .
