20th edition of Maritime Industry: where the entire inland shipping industry gathers
GORINCHEM – Twenty years of Maritime Industry. Twenty years of connections, innovations, collaborations, progress, and above all: an industry that never stands still. In 2026, the leading trade fair for inland shipping will celebrate its anniversary edition, bringing together shipbuilders, shipping companies, skippers, suppliers, innovators, and policymakers who are working together on the future of shipping. That future could well be more decisive than ever. That is why this edition not only reflects on twenty years of history, but once again focuses on what lies ahead.
When the very first Maritime Industry—then still known as the Construction & Shipping Industry—was organized, the sector was in a completely different world. Digitalization? Barely in its infancy. Sustainability? Back then, just a vision for the future. Automation, emissions reduction, alternative fuels, shore power, autonomous shipping… terms that were only rarely heard on the exhibition floor at the time.
Maritime Industry is now setting its sights on June 2, 3, and 4, 2026, for the 20th edition of the inland shipping trade fair.
An anniversary filled with recognition
An anniversary edition would not be complete without acknowledging the partners who have contributed to the success of Maritime Industry from the very beginning. That is why, this year, we will be visiting all exhibitors who have been present without interruption for all twenty years.
Each and every one of these companies has remained loyal not only to Maritime Industry, but above all to the inland waterway transport sector itself. They have helped shape its development, driven innovation, and ensured continuity in an industry that is constantly evolving. During these visits, the organization will present the Jubilee Award: a specially designed award to express gratitude for their trust, commitment, and contribution to twenty years of the trade show’s history.
In addition, Maritime Industry is highlighting their stories. This way, we’re not only celebrating the past but also sharing a common vision for the future of inland shipping. We’ll be sharing the first videos from this anniversary series soon—so be sure to keep an eye on our channels. 👀
Innovation in de spotlight 🥇
In addition to recognizing loyal partners, Maritime Industry continues to highlight new innovations. At the 2025 event, Tank-Eye B.V. won the Innovation Award for its camera system designed for the safe inspection of tanks. They thus followed in the footsteps of MarFlex – the 2024 winners.
The Tank-Eye system enables inspectors to take 360° photos without being exposed to hazardous fumes—a significant step forward for both safety and sustainability. Once again this year, companies can submit their innovations to compete for the Innovation Award.
Exhibition floor fills up in record time:
ground floor nearly full, Next Level growing alongside it
There is a great deal of interest in the 20th anniversary edition. The exhibition floor is filling up quickly, and the ground floor is already nearly fully booked. Exhibitors are eager to secure their spot at this special anniversary edition.
Next Level, the upper level of Evenementenhal Gorinchem—which was first put into use during the 16th edition of Maritime Industry in 2020—is also developing into a fully-fledged second exhibition level. The first exhibitors have already set up shop there.
This rapid influx of participants not only underscores the appeal of the anniversary edition but also the vitality of the sector. Companies are ready to showcase their work, forge connections, and chart a collective course toward the next twenty years of inland shipping innovation.
Twenty years of stories, new chapters beginning
Twenty years of innovation, collaboration, and progress demonstrate that inland shipping is a sector that never stands still. And that is precisely why this anniversary edition is the place where the entire industry comes together. Join us, look ahead, engage in conversations that set the course, and sail with us toward the future of inland shipping.
💬 Will we see you on June 2, 3, or 4, 2026? What are you most looking forward to during this anniversary edition? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know what you don’t want to miss!
