Review
SMM 2026: Charting the future of the maritime industry
For four inspiring days, Hamburg once again became the global meeting point for the maritime industry.
At SMM 2026, more than 50,000 participants from 134 countries came together to explore innovations, exchange ideas and build new partnerships. Around 2,300 exhibiting companies from 66 nations showcased cutting-edge technologies and solutions, turning the exhibition grounds into the heart of the international maritime community.
Facts & figures
The participants
- 50,000
participants
- 2,300
exhibitors
- 134
nations and regions
Decision makers
83% of visitors are involved in decision-making
The location
- 90,000
square metres
- 12
halls
The programme
- 5
Transition Stages
- 4
conferences
- 410
speakers
- 153
sessions
Innovating for tomorrow's challenges
Throughout the event, a strong sense of optimism and determination could be felt across the industry. Despite ongoing geopolitical and regulatory challenges, companies demonstrated a clear willingness to invest, innovate and accelerate transformation. One message stood out: the industry is no longer talking about future possibilities alone, but about implementing solutions that deliver value today.
Innovationen für die Herausforderungen von morgen
of visitors say that SMM provides valuable inspiration
of visitors see the trade fair as a key factor in the success of their business
Exhibitor feedback also underlines SMM’s relevance for the industry: 97% of exhibitors rated the event as important for their business.
Navigating a new era of security
While decarbonisation, energy efficiency and digitalisation remained key priorities, maritime security and resilience emerged as defining themes of this year's event. The new Naval Hall and the MS&D Conference & Expo created a dedicated platform for discussions on defence technologies, cybersecurity and the protection of critical maritime infrastructure.
Solutions for a more efficient future
At the same time, the new Energy Efficiency Hub highlighted practical solutions for reducing emissions and improving fleet performance. Artificial intelligence, autonomous systems and data-driven applications also dominated the discussions in the exhibition halls and the Start-Ups@SMM areas. With discussions focusing on real-world applications and measurable benefits.
Where partnerships begin
From conference stages and exhibition halls to networking events and business meetings, SMM 2026 connected decision-makers from industry, politics, research and defence. The event once again proved the value of personal exchange in driving innovation, creating business opportunities and strengthening international collaboration.
Besuchenden
of visitors rate their visit positively
are already planning to return for the next SMM
of exhibitors said they reached their most important sectors and target groups
of exhibitors said they were satisfied with their business success at SMM
The world's leading maritime industry event
With record attendance, high-level discussions and a clear focus on the industry's most pressing challenges and opportunities, SMM 2026 once again reinforced its position as the leading international platform for the maritime world.
SMM die wichtigste Messe
of visitors say that SMM is the most important trade fair in the maritime industry
The outlook for the next edition is equally strong: 93% of exhibitors said they want to return to SMM in 2028.
THANK YOU
to the global maritime community for making SMM 2026 such a success. We look forward to welcoming you back to Hamburg.
Your SMM Team
Stay tuned
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