This event marks the 70th anniversary of the IAPH, and attendees will gather in Kobe, where the first meeting to establish a global ports organization took place.
IAPH Managing Director Patrick Verhoeven highlighted the historical significance of the conference, noting that the founding of the organization in 1955 was inspired by the philosophy “World Peace through World Trade, World Trade through World Ports.” The theme for the conference, “Reinvention and Prosperity in Turbulent Times,” aligns with this spirit and aims to explore how innovative ports are securing sustainable investment returns in a high-risk environment, ultimately strengthening both their security and operational licenses.
The first two days of the conference will feature plenary sessions, breakout groups, and special interventions that will offer valuable insights for delegates. Topics will cover innovative approaches to port business models, revenue generation, technological advancements, and partnerships aimed at enhancing resilience in the face of future challenges. Delegates will also have the rare opportunity to interact with senior executives from Japanese ports and terminal operators, as well as representatives from the Japanese Ministry for Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism.
On October 8, the prestigious IAPH 2025 Sustainability Awards Dinner will take place, followed by a unique opportunity for attendees to experience the Port of Kobe from both land and sea. The technical program will include a seaborne visit to the Kobe Liquefied Hydrogen Receiving Terminal, as well as a comprehensive look at Kobe’s recovery from the devastating 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. A tour of the Disaster Recovery Center and a visit to the special memorial museum will provide further insight into the city’s resilience and response to its greatest crisis.