London International Shipping Week 2027

There is still a lasting “after-taste” from the recent London International Shipping Week 2027 events. Our industry is vast and diverse, facing countless challenges but also tremendous opportunities.
Point of agreement among industry leaders: the pace of changes is enormous, and efficient action is needed now. Yet, there is no single solution, no clear “black” or “white”, but diversity of expertise and opinions.
At Overhorn Swiss AG, we want to highlight the critical importance of Collaboration and Leadership. The spirit of collaboration between business representatives, regulators, and policymakers during that week was tangible.
Yuriy Kizlevych, MBA is grateful for the engaging discussion with Keir Mather, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the UK (Minister of Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonization) – the youngest minister appointed since 1834 – who is committed to driving a port-centric strategy, attracting investment, expanding capacity, and modernizing infrastructure.
Likewise, we highly appreciated the brief catch-up with IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, who emphasized the need for member states and stakeholders to collaborate, share, and compare actions to ensure shipping continues to deliver over 80% of global trade sustainably, while demonstrating leadership in security, decarbonization, and navigating geopolitical challenges.
We believe the hottest topics shaping our industry must always be seen through collaboration and leadership perspective:
Decarbonization: Pathways and fuels are still developing. What is needed is a segment-by-segment fuel strategy, with go/no-go criteria, chartering partnerships, and a time-bound roadmap with milestones, interim targets, dependency mapping, and clear accountabilities. Without this, targets remain at risk.
Maritime Security: The focus has shifted from non-state to direct state threats, as seen in the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The Houthi challenge in the Red Sea has diverted 65% of East–West trade around Africa, using advanced technology such as drones and missiles.
Seafarer Welfare & Recruitment: The human factor remains the most vital investment in shipping. While global collaboration platforms are valuable, the industry cannot wait for consensus. Leaders must act now to drive concrete welfare and recruitment initiatives.
Geopolitics: The smooth functioning of maritime trade is essential for global stability. Whenever possible, shipping should remain above geopolitics, safeguarding its role as the backbone of trade.
AI & Digitalization: A recent Lloyd’s report highlighted that shipping still lags behind other industries in data sharing and digital adoption. We believe AI and digitalization are not optional but critical enablers for efficiency, transparency, and resilience. The ability to harness data and strengthen decision-making will define the industry leaders of tomorrow.
At Overhorn Swiss AG, we believe in strategic collaboration and supporting leadership.