The 11th East Med Marine & Offshore Exhibition (EastMed Expo) opened its doors at the GrandResort, Limassol, reaffirming Cyprus’ role as a hub for maritime innovation and dialogue in the Eastern Mediterranean.
More than 80 exhibitors from 25 countries are showcasing cutting‑edge solutions across shipmanagement, bunkering, digitalisation, green fuels and offshore services during the two‑day gathering (24–25 April). Technical conferences on “Innovating Bunkering for a Sustainable Future” and “Maritime Digital Shift: AI, IT & the New Era of Shipping” headline the programme, alongside targeted workshops from leading equipment makers.
National commitment to a forward‑looking fleet
Declaring the exhibition officially open, Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis emphasised Cyprus’ ambition to “lead by example on decarbonisation and digital transformation”:
“EastMed Expo proves that collaboration is the fuel of progress. By convening technology developers, owners, regulators and academia under one roof, we accelerate the practical solutions our global fleet needs to meet the IMO 2030 and 2050 targets. Cyprus will continue to provide a stable, innovation‑friendly framework that attracts quality tonnage and talent.”
The Deputy Minister highlighted fresh incentives rolled out in the revised tonnage‑tax system, the launch of the One‑Stop‑Shipping Centre, and a forthcoming €6 million grant scheme for pilot projects on alternative fuels.
Industry voice: resilience, reliability and people
In his welcome address, Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC) President Themis Papadopoulos praised the exhibition’s organisers, Fameline Holding Group, for “elevating the maritime conversation” at a critical juncture:
“From volatile freight markets to tightening environmental rules, our sector faces unprecedented complexity. EastMed Expo equips ship operators with real‑world answers, while reinforcing Cyprus’ competitive edge as a service and knowledge centre. Above all, the show reminds us that shipping’s greatest asset is its people—the seafarers, engineers and innovators whose skills we must nurture.”
Papadopoulos urged the EU to match its climate ambitions with pragmatic funding for fleet retrofits and seafarer upskilling, warning that “fragmented regional measures risk undermining the level playing field we have fought hard to secure.”
Exhibition highlights
Green tech pavilion presenting methanol‑ready engines, wind‑assist rotors and shore‑power systems.
Startup zone featuring eight Cypriot maritime tech ventures selected by the Cyprus Marine & Maritime Institute (CMMI).
Crew welfare forum covering connectivity, mental health and diversity at sea.
On‑water demos at Limassol port showcasing drone‑based tank inspections and autonomous survey craft.
About EastMed Expo
Founded in 2002, EastMed Expo is organised biennially by Fameline Holding Group with the support of the Shipping Deputy Ministry of Cyprus, the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, Limassol Municipality and other stakeholders. The 2025 edition runs 24–25 April and is expected to attract more than 3,000 professional visitors.
For further information and free visitor registration, please visit eastmedexpo.com.
Source: cyprusshippingnews.com
