Claus Ulrich Selbach, Vice President Exhibitions at Hamburg Messe und Congress, emphasised: “INMEX SMM India 2025 has set new standards. It has become a true bridge between Europe and India, opening valuable opportunities for European exhibitors to enter the Asian market. Together with our partner Informa, we have built a strong platform for South Asia since 2015. The strong European presence here in Mumbai and the growing Indian participation in Hamburg clearly show that India’s shipbuilding market is gaining momentum.”
The strong international participation was showcased most prominently through the large national pavilions: Germany with a pavilion covering around 200 sqm and 18 exhibitors, Greece with over 80 sqm and eight exhibitors, and the Netherlands Lounge with around 40 sqm and ten exhibitors. Together, these three countries marked their largest presence ever in India. South Korea and Poland were also represented – a clear signal of the show’s global importance.
India’s shipbuilding and supply industry showcased its innovative strength in newbuilding and repair, complemented by leading international companies. In parallel, the conference with more than 80 speakers provided key insights on green shipping, digitalisation, port modernisation and offshore development, and concluded with the presentation of the Maritime Excellence Awards.
Voices from the Exhibition
- Michael Näther, CEO of Nicormal Edelstahl & Metallhandel and exhibitor at the German Pavilion: “INMEX SMM India 2025 exceeded our expectations. We established numerous high-quality business contacts and initiated concrete projects – making the South Asian market even more tangible for us.”
- Nicole van Spronsen, Project Manager Ships, Marin and exhibitor at the Netherlands Pavilion: “We are very satisfied with our participation. The exhibition was excellently organised, and the discussions at our stand promise concrete follow-up projects. For us, it is the ideal gateway to the Indian market – and we are already planning to return in 2027 with an even larger presence.”
Outlook
INMEX SMM India has firmly consolidated its position as South Asia’s leading trade fair. For European companies, it offers an ideal platform to enter the Asian market and build long-term partnerships. Together with SMM in Hamburg – taking place from 1 to 4 September 2026 – it forms a vital bridge between India, Europe and the global maritime industry. The next INMEX SMM India will take place from 22 to 24 September 2027.
