ICOMIA podcast: CEO and marinas chair discuss ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 2027 in Shanghai

The selection of Shanghai, China, as host for the ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 2027 marks a pivotal step for the global marina industry. On the latest ICOMIA podcast, ICOMIA CEO Joe Lynch and ICOMIA marinas group chair Jon White discuss the selection of Shanghai and the strategic vision behind bringing together established and emerging markets to explore the future of waterfront development, marina investment and internation.

Strategic move connects mature and emerging marina markets

Speaking at the official launch of ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 2027, Lynch highlights the tremendous local interest and the importance of bringing the event closer to emerging Asian markets, while also maintaining accessibility for mature markets across Asia-Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, the United States and Europe.

The ICOMIA World Marinas Conference 2027 will be held 30 March to 2 April 2027 at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center, marking the first time the event will be held on mainland China.

Industry-led programme to shape future marina development

Discussing the innovative conference programme, White expects central themes to include waterfront development, waterfront communities, marina-led regeneration, investment, infrastructure, regulation, and the wider economic value marinas bring to cities and coastal regions. Both Lynch and White emphasise that the conference is designed by the industry, for the industry, with input from ICOMIA members across North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. Ultimately, outcomes from the conference will help shape the agenda and priorities of the ICOMIA Marinas Group in the years that follow.

Opportunities to get involved will include attending as a delegate, contributing as a speaker, exhibiting products and services, or supporting the event as a sponsor. Further programme details and speaker opportunities are expected to be announced by ICOMIA in due course.