Maritime world meets at Europort Istanbul

Turkey is moving full speed ahead to be one of the leading countries in the maritime sector. Following on from a difficult economic situation, the Turkish shipbuilding

industry has shown its resilience and has rapidly adapted to take on the construction of complex ships.

The Turkish government has announced that in the context of fleet renewal, 400 shortsea ships will be built. As a result, the need for expertise in shipbuilding and supply, financing and logistics has been increasing. This is a development which presents important challenges and opportunities for the supply industry.

Since 2002 Turkey has risen from the 23rd to 5^th place in the shipbuilding industry worldwide, and to 7th place in mega yacht building. The number of shipyards has increased from 40 to 107. This number will rise to 175 with completion of ongoing

investments.

In the maritime world, Istanbul occupies a central position. It is the centre of the Turkish shipbuilding industry and the link between Europe, the Balkans, the Middle East, the Black Sea region and North Africa.

The 10th edition of this trade fair created a positive business environment, with 217

exhibitors representing 610 brands from 34 countries and 7,869 high quality visitors from 48 countries participating. Most of the international visitors came from the EU region with the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Spain, Germany and Greece in the Top 5, but there were also visitors from Bulgaria, France, Japan, Belgium, Italy and Scandinavian countries.

The event was accompanied by a high quality conference and workshop programme, covering many of the genuine issues in the Turkish maritime industry. The 2011 edition of Europort Istanbul is set to again provide it with a complete platform.

Two major events have now come together to provide the perfect platform for discussion and business. Europort Istanbul and Mare Forum Istanbul have joined forces to create one event taking place from 22 to 26 March 2011. Mare Forum Istanbul will be held one day prior to Europort Istanbul. Delegates will set the scene and see the trends, then go to the trade fair armed with new knowledge and new contacts. The Mare Forum, for which there is a €750 fee (second person from same company free), takes place on 22 March.

Europort Istanbul itself will feature a cocktail reception sponsored by Holland Marine Equipment on 23 March at 17:30 in the foyer of Istanbul Expo Center. And of course Istanbul, one of the world’s most interesting cities, will provide a wealth of entertainment for visitors away from the exhibition.

Entrance to Europort Istanbul 2011 is free of charge for trade visitors, who can pre-register via www.europort-istanbul.com.