AntwerpXL (AXL) is proud to announce an impressive line-up of speakers and industry experts, reinforcing its position as a leading forum for the breakbulk, RoRo, and project cargo sectors. The event will take place from the 8th to 10th October, with the main deck conference taking place on the 9th and 10th. This year's conference will bring together an elite group of thought leaders and professionals, offering valuable insights into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the breakbulk and heavy lift industries. Attendees will gain access to unmatched expertise and strategic perspectives directly from the most influential voices in their sectors.
Key speakers include Sharanya Kumaramurthy, Market Intelligence Manager & Interim Head of Consultant at Energy Industries Council; Peter Molloy, Senior Analyst at Drewry Shipping Consultants; Susan Oatway, Senior Research Analyst, Breakbulk and Project Cargo at S&P Global. Dominique Gijbels, CEO at GTT Automotive, Robert Drew, Head of Global Logistics at Tata International, followed by Joe Bettles, Market Analyst at Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Centre for Zero Carbon Shipping and Raza Mehdi, Senior Specialist/Project Lead for Supply Chain at Toyota, among others.
The agenda for AXL 2024 has been designed to address critical topics facing the sectors, including the global energy transition, Sustainability and the evolving regulatory landscape – Key issues that are redefining the future of breakbulk and project cargo. Attendees can look forward to a wealth of knowledge and unique perspectives from these leading voices, each bringing hands-on experience and analytical insights vital for maritime professionals navigating a rapidly evolving industry. The conference aims to foster collaboration and transparency, addressing the pressing need for sustainable development and the adoption of advanced digital solutions.
AXL's Head of Content, Anamika Talwaria, highlighted the significance of this year's speaker line-up: "AXL 2024 promises to be a remarkable platform for industry leaders to share their expertise and discuss the evolving challenges and opportunities in the breakbulk and project cargo sector. From global energy trends to sustainability initiatives, our speakers will provide attendees with actionable insights and the latest innovations shaping the industry".
Energy and Geopolitics in Focus
The conference will kick off with a keynote address by Sharanya Kumaramurthy, who will explore the geopolitical forces driving the global energy market. Her session will delve into how energy policies are evolving worldwide in response to the rise of renewable energy and electric vehicles. Kumaramurthy will pinpoint which regions are leading these changes and where significant shifts are anticipated.
Following the keynote, a panel discussion will examine the implications of these energy trends on the shipping and project cargo sector. Susan Oatway from S&P Global and Peter Molloy from Drewry Shipping Consultants will discuss how the changing energy landscape is affecting the availability and demand for multipurpose vessels (MPVs). Moderated by Sharanya Kumaramurthy, this session promises to shed light on how market volatility and geopolitical events are influencing the industry.
Challenges in Automotive Logistics
GTT Automotive CEO Dominique Gijbels will lead a discussion on the latest developments in automotive logistics. As the automotive industry moves forward, electrification and shipping of these vehicles present increasingly complex logistical challenges.
Managing Project Logistics across continents
Tata International's Robert Drew will address the hurdles of managing project Logistics across continents, drawing from his experience with operations in China, the US and Europe.
Regulation and Sustainability at the forefront
With new regulatory pressures approaching, AntwerpXL (AXL) will host a key panel discussing the impact of policy changes on project cargo operations. Joe Bettles from Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Centre for Zero Carbon Shipping will lead the panel, joined by Gudrun Janssens from BIMCO, Johan-Paul Verschuure from Rebel Group, and Leif Arne Strømmen of Peak CSL Group. Together, they will analyse the implications of the EU's Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), FuelEU Maritime regulations, and the International Maritime Organisation's (IMO) upcoming decisions, expected just days before the event and how these will influence future cargo projects.
EVs and RoRo logistics
The second day will focus on electric vehicles (EVs), one of the fastest-growing segments in the cargo world. As EV demand surges, the RoRo (roll on / roll off) sector faces significant logistical challenges. Toyota's Raza Mehdi will lead a roundtable discussion on how the industry is adapting to the increased volume of EVs and the unique requirements involved in their transport. Industry leaders such as David Van Ballaert at Sallaum Lines, Paul Hatley from Associated British Ports and Isabelle Van Looy from Infrabel will also share their expertise, exploring the impact of trade policies, traffic, and bilateral agreements on the sector.
Shaping the Future of Breakbulk and Project Cargo
AXL 2024 is set to be a pivotal event for industry professionals keen to stay ahead of emerging trends and challenges in the breakbulk and project cargo markets. The conference will offer essential insights into energy, policy, Sustainability, and logistics for new vehicle types, featuring discussions with some of the most influential figures in the sector. Feedback from previous attendees underscores the event's significance. One industry leader remarked: "AXL is an amazing international conference sparking crucial discussions, fostering inclusivity, and inspiring the industry. It's an event not to be missed" with an action-packed agenda that includes keynote speeches panel discussions and intimate talks with industry leaders, AXL2024 is a must-attend event for those looking to stay at the forefront of the breakbulk and project cargo industry for registration details and more information in the event, Visit AXL Registration and view the full conference programme here.