Global shipowners, yards, and suppliers are gearing up for a new investment cycle focused on fleet efficiency, artificial intelligence, and sustainability, according to the latest SMM Maritime Industry Report (MIR) released ahead of next year’s shipping exhibition in Hamburg.
The survey, conducted by Hamburg Messe und Congress (HMC) and market research firm mindline, shows the industry’s confidence remains strong despite economic headwinds. The Maritime Industry Score — which measures sentiment across shipping, shipbuilding, and supply sectors — stands at 50.5 points, signalling continued optimism even after a slight dip from last year’s 52.
Suppliers remain the most upbeat group with a score of 64.6, while shipyards climbed to a record 49.9, their highest reading since the survey began. Shipowners were slightly more cautious at 34.4 points, reflecting uncertainty around fuel choices and regulatory compliance.
“The industry continues to grow dynamically, setting a strong signal in times of rapid change,” said Claus Ulrich Selbach, vice president of exhibitions – maritime and energy at HMC.
For the first time, the study also highlighted the top operational challenges facing the sector — led by a shortage of skilled professionals, high energy costs, and increasing bureaucracy. Organisers said the Maritime Career Market at SMM 2026 will specifically address the labour gap by connecting employers and young professionals.
The report showed investment readiness has reached record levels. Nearly half of shipowners (48%) say they are “likely” or “very likely” to order new vessels before 2026 — the highest figure since the survey began.
Sustainability and digitalisation remain top priorities, with six in ten respondents expecting growing pressure to modernise their fleets for better energy performance. Demand for data-driven and AI-based solutions has risen sharply, up 13 percentage points from the last survey.
“The relevance of AI and digital tools is increasing across all sectors, from ship design to fleet optimisation,” said Christoph Lücke, director of SMM.
The strongest ordering intentions are concentrated in containerships, roro and passenger ferries, cruise ships, and naval tonnage.
“The volatile global political environment, marked by numerous conflicts that directly affect the maritime world, is clearly leaving its mark,” said Klaus Borgschulte, shipyard manager and chairman of the SMM advisory committee.
Suppliers are also reporting a growing focus on after-sales services and long-term product reliability. “Quality is becoming the most important success factor,” said Hauke Schlegel, CEO at VDMA Marine Equipment and Systems. “Shipowners can no longer afford breakdowns — reliability is crucial, especially for non-redundant systems such as scrubbers and ballast water management.”
The next SMM Hamburg will take place from September 1 to 4 2026, bringing together shipowners, shipyards, suppliers, and regulators for what organisers call “the world’s leading maritime platform for innovation and collaboration.”
