“We used to save 30–40 ships a day, now less”, “freight rates have risen”, “ammonia and container ships in the danger zone”

As reported by CCTV+, on Monday, the Posidonia International Shipping Exhibition opened in the Greek capital, Athens – one of the world’s most influential maritime trade exhibitions. Discussions focused mainly on the impact of the Middle East conflict on global shipping.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said that amid the complex international situation, the importance of shipping for global trade, energy supply and economic stability has become even more evident.

The exhibition covers key topics: maritime security, the green transition, digital transformation and the application of artificial intelligence in the shipping industry. Around 70 forums and thematic events will be held as part of the exhibition, including a number of promotional and networking events organised by Chinese organisations.

Participants noted that the war launched by the United States and Israel against Iran, as well as the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, have dealt a severe blow to international shipping and trade.

Ioannis Efstratiou, Director of the Safety and Environmental Protection Department of the Cyprus Ministry of Shipping, said: “Huge container ships are in the conflict zone, as is the export of ammonia and other essential goods. This affects not only shipping but also the economy.”

Dasanayake, Managing Director of a Sri Lankan shipping company, added: “Previously, we saved about 30, 40 or 20, 30 ships a day, but now that number has decreased. Why? Because there is less time for our shipping industry. As a result, freight rates have risen. Thus, trade volumes have dropped significantly.”

Posidonia, founded in 1969 and held every two years, is widely considered one of the world’s leading maritime exhibitions. The 2026 exhibition runs until June 5.

Note: Posidonia is one of the three largest maritime events in the world, alongside the exhibitions in Norway (Nor-Shipping) and Hamburg (SMM). The name comes from the Greek word “Posidonia” (in honour of the god Poseidon).

The sea has always been a route, not a barrier. But when straits close and tankers stop, the sea becomes a battlefield for resources. At Posidonia, they talk about green engines and artificial intelligence, but the main theme is war. Container ships are stuck, freight rates have soared, trade volumes have fallen. A Cypriot official speaks of ammonia. A Sri Lankan businessman speaks of fewer ships saved. The exhibition is not a celebration of seafaring. It is a cry for help. The question is not whether the world will return to peaceful trade. The question is whether the industry will adapt before the crisis finally breaks supply chains. While diplomats argue, freight rates rise. And the sea waits.