On June 10, key players from the global shipping and maritime industry will gather in Bergen for the Bergen International Shipping Conference (BISC), which will take place at Grieghallen.
“In the shipping world, Bergen is a major city. We have a number of shipping companies and suppliers that make up a unique, comprehensive cluster of businesses and a robust ecosystem of world-leading players. Most people are probably unaware of this, but that’s likely because the market for these companies is global,” says Sigvald Sveinbjørnsson of Maritime Bergen.
High profile
The conference aims to be a leading international forum for decision-makers in an industry facing major changes.
– The conference is high-profile. Among others, we have secured the participation of Gøran Persson, former Prime Minister of Sweden; Sabrina Chao, a shipowner from Hong Kong; and Professor and author Michael Beckley from the United States—who, from their respective perspectives in Europe, Asia, and the United States, will shed light on the geopolitical tensions. We also have a powerhouse panel of shipbrokers and top executives from three shipping companies who will discuss the challenges facing the maritime industry. The program features groundbreaking technology—not just buzzwords—but concrete and tangible innovations. It will be a jam-packed conference with top-notch speakers. And of course: There will be both lunch and generous breaks for mingling and networking, says Sveinbjørnsson.
The shipping industry is increasingly affected by global changes. This year’s conference will focus in particular on how industry players should navigate a landscape characterized by:
- geopolitical uncertainty
- energy transition and climate requirements
- rapid technological development
These topics provide the backdrop for discussions about future strategies and competitiveness in the industry.
Brings together a world-class international community
The event brings together top executives, investors, brokers, and other stakeholders from the maritime value chain. The goal is to facilitate both professional development and targeted networking.
Part of a larger maritime event
“This year, the Bergen International Shipping Conference will be held the day before the traditional ‘Bergen Shipping Dinner,’ which brings together shipping companies, shipbrokers, and the entire shipping industry every other year,” says Sveinbjørnsson.
Taken together, this makes Bergen a key hub for international maritime activity this week.
Facts About the Bergen International Shipping Conference
- Date: June 10, 2026
- Location: Grieghallen, Bergen
- Organizer: Maritime Bergen and the Bergen Shipowners' Association
- The conference is open to everyone—get your ticket here.
- Participants: International senior executives and experts from the shipping and maritime sectors
