China's maritime industry embraces green transformation

The 2025 Marintec China, a major international event in the maritime industry, showcased advancements in green shipping technology and alternative marine fuels during its four-day exhibition starting on Dec 2 in Shanghai.

Attracting over 2,200 companies from more than 40 countries and regions, the exhibition area exceeds 110,000 square meters across 11 specialized zones.

"This year's exhibition marks a pivotal moment in maritime history as we witness unprecedented industrywide commitment to sustainable shipping solutions," said Xing Wenhua, head of the Shanghai society of naval architects and marine engineers, and chairman of the Chinese organizing committee for Marintec China.

Despite the one-year delay in the International Maritime Organization's net zero framework, the momentum toward green and low-carbon transformation remains unstoppable, Xing noted. New orders for alternative fuel vessels surged 78 percent in the first half of 2025 compared to all of 2024.

The centerpiece of this year's event was the inaugural Energytec zone focusing on alternative energy sources and their support chain. It featured cutting-edge technologies from global marine energy companies, hosted specialized forums exploring alternative energy supply chains, electrification, wind and solar applications, and nuclear-powered vessels.

Norway, as the Country of Honor, showcased its national pavilion featuring cutting-edge technologies in ammonia fuel supply and carbon capture, highlighting collaborative opportunities with Chinese enterprises.