Hong Kong is preparing to host the 10th-anniversary edition of Hong Kong Maritime Week (HKMW 2026), taking place from November 15 to 21.

This year’s program will bring together maritime professionals from around the world to discuss developments affecting global shipping, including changes in trade patterns, geopolitical uncertainty, decarbonization, alternative fuels and ship finance.

A “safe harbor” and “super connector” in volatile markets

Hong Kong continues to position itself as a key maritime and financial center in Asia, supported by its role under the “One Country, Two Systems” framework and its common law system.

As the only common law jurisdiction within China, Hong Kong provides a legal and financial environment that supports the free flow of capital, data and talent, offering shipowners and institutional investors a degree of protection against market disruptions.

The number of ship lessors operating in the city increased from 11 in 2020 to 64 in 2024, supported by government tax measures and deep capital markets capable of funding marine insurance and green technology projects.

On the dispute resolution front, Hong Kong recorded a 56% surge in maritime arbitration cases in 2025. It is currently one of only four designated arbitration venues under the Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO) standard contracts and serves as the primary seat for PRC-related disputes.

Operationally, Hong Kong is also expanding its green maritime fuel bunkering and trading hub. For operators facing conventional fuel price volatility, this hub aims to provide cost-effective, practical options for complying with international decarbonization rules.

Program highlights

The week officially kicks off on November 16 with a hybrid Opening Ceremony at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The 45-minute session will feature keynote addresses from top policymakers and global industry leaders.

On November 16 and 17, the World Maritime Merchants Forum will bring together industry experts to address geopolitical developments, trade disruption and sustainable shipping practices.

The Asian Logistics, Maritime and Aviation Conference (ALMAC) will also take place on November 16 and 17, focusing on developments and opportunities across the region’s supply chains. On November 17, the conference will include a dedicated Belt and Road shipping seminar that spotlights Hong Kong’s status as a global shipping and investment hub, exploring new opportunities in infrastructure, technological innovation, and the green transition.

On November 16, the International Chamber of Shipping will host the third Hong Kong Global Maritime Trade Summit. Discussions will focus on supply chain resilience, maritime security and freedom of navigation.

On November 17, the Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board will hold its second annual Flagship Summit under the theme "Capital Meets Cargo: Financing the Future of Global Trade". The program will cover ship finance, marine insurance and commodity markets. Following the Flagship Summit, HKMPDB will partner with the Financial Times to host an exclusive Dialogue Reception in the early evening, bringing together prominent guests from the maritime and financial sectors to exchange views in an intimate setting.

The program will also explore technical and technological developments across the industry. BIMCO will make its HKMW debut on November 18. In collaboration with the International Organization for Mediation, BIMCO will present a technical seminar on contractual developments related to the energy transition and maritime decarbonization.

On November 19, the International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) will host the half-day forum titled "Fueling Now and the Future: IBIA Hong Kong Forum on Alternative Marine Fuels”. The forum will cover the commercial adoption of alternative fuels, safety requirements, and supply chain readiness.

To date, over 80 international organizations have confirmed plans to host around 60 events during HKMW 2026.