This must-attend event, organized by Ouest-France and Le Marin at the Palais des Congrès, brings together key players in the maritime sector to explore the multiple transitions shaping the future of our coastline. From digital advancements to energy transitions, as well as industrial and military developments, discover how France navigates these changing waters.
The 19th Maritime Economy Conference is an annual event essential for all maritime professionals, promising to be a crucial gathering for the future of the blue industry. Scheduled for November 19-20, 2024, at the Palais des Congrès in Bordeaux, this conference provides a unique opportunity to gauge the pulse of the maritime economy and explore the horizons that lie ahead.
In a rapidly changing world, the maritime industry, long viewed as conservative, stands at the forefront of major transformations redefining its future. The central theme of this edition, « The Maritime Economy in Transition, » aptly reflects the profound changes currently underway in the sector.
Five Major Transitions at the Heart of the Discussions
The 2024 conference will explore five significant transitions transforming the maritime sector:
- Digital Transition: The maritime sector, historically rooted in paperwork, has embraced the digital revolution. However, a new wave is emerging with the advent of artificial intelligence. The conference will scrutinize the horizon of these innovations, examining how they are reshaping the industry and paving the way for unprecedented opportunities in the maritime world.The example of CMA CGM, France’s leading shipping company and the world’s third-largest player, will be highlighted. Its massive investments in the Kyutai laboratory and quantum specialist Pasqal underscore the strategic importance of these technologies for the industry’s future.
- Industrial Transition: Port areas are currently undergoing profound transformation. The conference will spotlight the increasing number of hydrogen, battery, and synthetic fuel production projects in these strategic locations. These new activities promise the creation of thousands of jobs while disrupting long-standing balances.Participants will explore how these changes redefine port space usage and transform traditional occupations, paying particular attention to concerns raised by certain stakeholders, especially dockworkers, regarding these developments.
- Social Transition: The conference will address issues related to corporate social and environmental responsibility (CSR) in the maritime sector. Discussions will focus on ways to raise social standards, particularly at the European level, in an international context where regulations are sometimes inadequate.Participants will explore initiatives aimed at combating social dumping and promoting more ethical and sustainable practices within the maritime industry.
- Energy Transition: The question of decarbonizing maritime transport will be central to the discussions. The conference will examine the challenges associated with changing fuels for ships, a necessary transformation after decades of intensive hydrocarbon use.Discussions will focus on the emergence of hybrid strategies, the rapid evolution of technologies, and the need for major powers to continually reassess their tools and tactics.
- Military Transition: Finally, the conference will address geopolitical and military issues shaping the global maritime landscape. In a context of global rearmament, participants will analyze how the post-Cold War model is being challenged, particularly in the maritime domain.A particular focus will be on the development of renewable marine energies, especially fixed and floating wind energy. Participants will discuss the opportunities offered by these technologies, as well as the concerns they raise, particularly among fishermen and in the tourism sector.
This conference will provide a unique space for discussion and reflection on these crucial issues for the future of the maritime sector.
A Rich Program Featuring High-Level Interventions
The 2024 conference will offer a dense two-day program, featuring dozens of round tables and three simultaneous conference cycles on the morning of the second day. Many prominent figures are expected to share their expertise and visions. Among the notable speakers will be Alain Rousset, President of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine Region; Christine Bost, President of Bordeaux Métropole; Pierre Hurmic, Mayor of Bordeaux; Edouard Louis-Dreyfus, President of Armateurs de France; and Nathalie Mercier-Perrin, President of the French Maritime Cluster, representing the private sector. Jean-Yves Le Drian, former Minister of Defense and former Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs, along with Admiral Nicolas Vaujour, Chief of Staff of the French Navy, will provide insights on military issues, while Patrick Martin, President of Medef, will discuss the blue economy and its challenges.
Beyond these high-level interventions, the Maritime Economy Conference 2024 will offer numerous networking and exchange opportunities. Breaks between sessions and the evening event will allow participants to make contacts, share ideas, and develop new partnerships.
This conference is set to be a crucial event for the future of the French maritime sector. In a context of multiple transitions and profound changes, it will provide a unique platform to collectively define the strategic orientations of the blue economy.
For professionals, this conference represents an exceptional opportunity to engage in discussions that will shape the future of France’s maritime sector. It’s the time to gather information, exchange ideas, and contribute to charting the course for a dynamic, innovative, and sustainable maritime industry.
So whether you are an expert, a professional, or a policymaker, don’t miss this essential gathering on November 19-20, 2024, at the Palais des Congrès in Bordeaux. The 19th Maritime Economy Conference awaits you for two days of exciting exchanges that could mark a turning point in our country’s maritime history. Together, let’s navigate towards a transforming maritime future!
Source; voilesetvoiliers
