Shipping Technology Conference :
Port Management & Logistics
Delivered – Virtually
May 8, 2025
Welcome to the Shipping Technology Conference (Port Management & Logistics). Hear from industry experts and logistics leaders as they discuss the latest advancements in shipping technology and port management. Explore innovative solutions and technologies that are shaping the future of global logistics. Join us virtually on May 8, 2025, and gain unparalleled insight into cutting-edge developments in shipping and port operations.
Every year, over 11 billion tons of goods, valued at approximately $2.2 trillion, are shipped globally. There are an estimated 5,600 container ships in service and roughly 60,000 merchant ships operating internationally. Together, these vessels traverse around six billion nautical miles annually.
Large container ships can carry over 18,000 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs), transporting cargo worth more than $985 million per voyage. Mega container ships typically transport cargo valued between $400 million and $500 million, with the ship itself valued at approximately $110 million.
Several advanced technologies are transforming the shipping industry. Key innovations include:
- Autonomous Ships: One of the most revolutionary developments, autonomous ships use advanced sensors, cameras, and algorithms to operate without human intervention. Key benefits include enhanced safety through collision detection and avoidance, reduced fuel consumption, and optimized scheduling for faster deliveries.
- Artificial Intelligence & Digitalization: AI and digital platforms are reshaping various industry operations. AI-driven systems optimize routes, improve safety, and enhance decision-making, while digital platforms facilitate real-time cargo tracking. Additionally, drones are increasingly used for remote inspections, patrolling restricted zones, and delivering essential supplies.
- Sustainable Energy Solutions: The shipping industry is exploring several sustainable energy options, including:
- Lower-carbon fuels (e.g., LNG, methyl-alcohol, bio-oil)
- Hybrid propulsion systems
- Wind-assisted propulsion
- Energy recovery methods
- Hydrodynamic and aerodynamic optimization
Ports are also adopting high-definition cameras, thermal imaging, and advanced scanning technologies (e.g., 3D imaging, X-ray, and gamma-ray) for enhanced monitoring and cargo inspection. To comply with the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, some inbound cotton
shipments are subject to isotope mass spectrometry analysis to verify their origins. Additional advancements include biometric access controls, robotics for warehouse automation, upgraded cybersecurity, and integrated security platforms.
The commercial shipping industry faces numerous challenges, including:
- Geopolitical tensions, such as trade wars and control of strategic waterways (e.g., the Panama Canal)
- Security threats from groups like the Houthi rebels in the Red Sea
- Labor issues, such as union strikes at major American ports
Other industry concerns include reshoring of American manufacturing, drought-induced complications in the Panama Canal, port congestion, and the increasing presence of Chinese-origin port surveillance systems. Additionally, rising insurance costs and capacity overhang further strain the sector.
Geopolitically, China dominates with more than 5,500 oceangoing merchant vessels, compared to just 80 for the U.S… In response, the U.S. Congress introduced the SHIPS Act, aimed at revitalizing the domestic shipping and shipbuilding industries. If passed, the SHIPS Act could have an impact similar to the CHIPS Act, which boosted domestic semiconductor production
Investments in shipping, port technology, and logistics industries have fluctuated significantly in recent quarters. Approximately $450 million has been invested across 114 companies in the port technology space over the last several years. During a similar period, there were 19 acquisitions and two initial public offerings (IPOs).
The following are notable acquisitions in the shipping industry in 2024:
- CMA CGM’s acquisition of Wincanton, a UK-based logistics company, for about $1 billion in January 2024.
- Castor Maritime’s agreement to acquire a 2020-built Kamsarmax bulk carrier for $29.95 million in September 2024.
- MSC’s purchase of Gram Car Carriers in 2024.
- Adnoc’s acquisition of Navig8 for over $1 billion in 2024.
- BlackRock’s sale of its GasLog stake to GIC in 2024.
Despite a significant overall decline in venture funding for logistics startups—falling sharply to $2.9 billion in 2023, a nearly 90% decrease from its $25.6 billion peak in 2021—there remain active venture capital firms focusing on maritime and logistics startups:
- TecPier: Invests $100,000 to $500,000 in maritime, logistics, and supply chain startups.
- Flagship Founders: Focuses on startups addressing digital transformation in the maritime industry.
- theDock: Invests $100,000 to $500,000 in maritime, supply chain, and offshore technologies.
- Innoport: Specializes in seed investments in global maritime and logistics sectors.
Each presenting company will showcase solutions designed to improve shipping efficiency, port management, and logistics. Presenters will highlight how their technologies enable safer, more reliable, and cost-effective operations. Key topics will include:
- Addressable markets and customer segments
- R&D efforts and proprietary technologies
- Business models, including partnerships with adjacent tech providers
- Revenue streams, contracted revenues, and capital requirements
- Strategies for handling external shocks
- Talent acquisition, retention, and expansion plans
- Milestones, growth ambitions, and potential exit strategies
Please check back soon for the full agenda of presenting companies. If you would like to nominate a company to present, please contact David Wanetick at dwanetick@davosinthedesert.us.
Registration is free for members of Davos in the Desert. The registration fee for non-members is $10. Each registration is valid for one attendee. Please note that all sales are final, and no refunds will be issued.