Event Agenda

What do cargo owners need from the logistics industry? Gain insights from major shippers on evolving priorities, supply chain risks, and expectations for project cargo services in an increasingly complex global trade environment.

The move towards renewable energy has created significant demand for specialized transport solutions. Examine how wind, solar and other projects are reshaping the logistics landscape, and discuss how political shifts might impact the global marketplace.

Outdated transport routes and facilities present significant challenges for heavy lift and oversized cargo. This session explores innovative solutions, public-private partnerships, and investment strategies for infrastructure modernization, including ports, roads, and rail.

Digital transformation is accelerating sustainability in breakbulk and project cargo, from AI-driven route optimization to real-time emissions tracking and automation. This session explores how digital tools enhance efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and support greener supply chains. As new technologies reshape logistics, the next generation is leading the charge in adopting and integrating these innovations.

The Green World Awards are designed to showcase every sector in the industry and the companies and individuals that are demonstrating the path forward. The awards will be presented at the Breakbulk Europe Welcome Reception on the Main Stage, followed by a Winners’ Reception. Join the celebration!
 

The MPV fleet faces ongoing capacity challenges amid rising cargo demand and economic pressures. This session provides a market update on fleet availability, investment in newbuild programs, and the shifting balance of supply and demand. Our expert speaker will analyze key factors influencing fleet expansion, identify potential bottlenecks, and discuss which vessel types are best positioned for future success.

With the striking of a healthy ‘supply-demand’ balance so prevalent in the MPP sector today – and the types of cargoes and vessels most affected – industry leaders discuss fleet renewal strategies, evolving ship designs, and how future fuels and market stability will impact newbuilding investment.

Electrification is gaining traction in logistics, but can current technology meet the demands of project cargo and heavy-lift transport? While electric trucks and port equipment are emerging, battery limitations, engine power requirements, and infrastructure gaps remain significant challenges. This session explores how manufacturers are developing electric solutions for heavy transport, the role of ports in supporting shore power and charging networks, and what’s needed to scale electrification across the supply chain. Industry leaders will share case studies on the technological advancements, policy incentives, and real-world applications shaping the future of sustainable project logistics.

The logistics landscape is being reshaped by trade wars, tariffs, and escalating tensions in volatile regions, such as the Russia-Ukraine war and security risks in the Red Sea. This session delves into how these geopolitical factors impact project cargo operations, disrupt traditional trade routes, and drive up operational complexities and costs. Gain insights into strategies for navigating these challenges, mitigating risks, and adapting to an increasingly uncertain global environment.

As green hydrogen projects expand worldwide, the breakbulk and project cargo sector faces new logistics challenges. This panel will explore key trends, from transporting electrolyzers and storage tanks to navigating supply chain bottlenecks and emerging trade routes. Experts will discuss how ports, carriers, and logistics providers are adapting to support the hydrogen economy’s rapid growth.

Discover how shifting global trade patterns are highlighting North Africa as a critical hub for breakbulk and project cargo, driven by major infrastructure developments and increasing investment in energy, mining, industrial projects and construction. This session explores how the region’s ports and inland transport networks are evolving to support heavy-lift and oversized cargo. Experts will discuss key trade corridors linking North Africa to Europe, the Middle East, and the rest of Africa, the impact of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and strategies for overcoming logistical and regulatory challenges to unlock North Africa’s full potential as a project cargo powerhouse.

Maurice Jansen, Senior Researcher / Business Developer, Erasmus University Rotterdam 
Renée Rotmans, Program Manager Social Innovation, Port of Rotterdam 

Hear from recent graduates who have joined the workforce to learn about their experience to date and top tips to being successful when starting out. 

This interactive session will enable you to use problem-based learning in tackling a real-world scenario.   

Explore strategies to address the widening talent gap in the breakbulk and project cargo industries. This panel will discuss innovative approaches to recruitment, training, and workforce development, including apprenticeships, leadership programs, and diversity initiatives. Learn how modernizing talent acquisition and embracing sustainability can position the industry as a top career choice for the next generation.  

Industry leaders will confront the critical challenges and seize the opportunities in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) within breakbulk transportation. In collaboration with YoungShip, this session will drive meaningful dialogue and solutions for our industry’s future. 

Students will have the chance to speak with a variety of different companies covering the entire supply chain; discovering what a career in breakbulk can look like, as well as more opportunities that are out there for students on this guided floor walk.