Port of Barcelona to Host II Annual Shippers’ Conference
Barcelona, February 13, 2026 – The Port of Barcelona will host the II Annual Shippers’ Conference next Thursday, February 19. Organized by the Spanish Shippers’ Association, the Spanish Shippers Council, and Alpega, the event will gather companies from all levels of the maritime and land supply chain to discuss the sector’s needs and the impact of trends such as geopolitical changes, deglobalization, digitalization, and the emergence of artificial intelligence.
Addressing Industry Challenges and Future Trends
The conference will tackle these challenges through presentations, including one by Jordi Torrent, Head of Strategy at the Port of Barcelona, and round tables featuring participants from companies such as Hutchison Ports BEST, Cotraport, Tolsa, Ocean Network Express (ONE), and INTTRA E2open. These industry leaders will provide both global and local perspectives on the realities of both sectors.
Manifesto for an Efficient, Sustainable, and Competitive Maritime Transport
A key outcome of the conference will be the definition of a sectoral stance on these challenges. Under the title ‘Manifesto for an efficient, sustainable, and competitive maritime transport,’ the collective of shipping companies will present a document outlining the sector’s commitment to more “sustainable and competitive” transport. This manifesto aims to provide the “maximum possible value to supply chains, incorporating the vision that industrial resilience can only be built from an efficient and harmonious integration between people, the planet, and industry,” as explained by the Port of Barcelona.
Institutional Support and Opening Remarks
José Alberto Carbonell, President of the Port of Barcelona, expressed his pride in hosting the event. “Shipping companies are a fundamental part of logistics, both land and maritime, and therefore a key piece of the great engine that is our port. Hosting the Annual Shippers’ Conference is a source of pride for the Port of Barcelona,” he stated. Carbonell will be responsible for inaugurating the conference.
The institutional representation will be completed by Benito Núñez, Secretary General for Air and Maritime Transport of the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, who will be in charge of closing the event.
Key Topics and Participants
The conference agenda is designed to foster a comprehensive discussion on critical issues affecting the shipping and logistics industries. Attendees will benefit from insights into:
- The strategic vision of the Port of Barcelona in a rapidly changing global landscape.
- The operational challenges and solutions presented by major players in port operations and logistics.
- The role of technology, including artificial intelligence, in enhancing efficiency and competitiveness.
- The imperative of sustainability and decarbonization across the supply chain.
The participation of diverse companies, from port operators to shipping lines and technology providers, ensures a holistic view of the industry’s current state and future direction. This collaborative approach is expected to generate actionable strategies and foster stronger partnerships within the sector.
Impact on the Local and Global Economy
The Port of Barcelona, a vital hub for trade and logistics, plays a crucial role in the economic development of Catalonia and Spain. By hosting this conference, the port reinforces its commitment to promoting innovation and sustainability within the transport sector. The discussions and outcomes of the conference are expected to have a significant impact on local and international trade, influencing policy decisions and industry practices.
The event underscores Barcelona’s position as a leading center for maritime and logistics expertise, attracting key stakeholders and fostering dialogue on pressing industry issues. The manifesto to be presented will serve as a guiding document for future initiatives aimed at making the transport sector more resilient and environmentally friendly.
The II Annual Shippers’ Conference is a testament to the ongoing efforts to adapt and thrive in an evolving global economy, ensuring that the maritime and land transport sectors remain efficient, competitive, and sustainable for years to come.
Source: https://www.diarioelcanal.com/el-puerto-de-barcelona-acogera-la-ii-conferencia-anual-de-cargadores/
