World Ports & Trade Summit 2012
In March 2011, Abu Dhabi hosted the very first World Ports & Trade Summit. An initiative developed with ADPC - Abu Dhabi Ports Company and the Arab Seaports Federation, the Summit attracted over 2,900 leading minds from 52 countries.

Economists discussed the macroeconomic outlook. Government authorities presented infrastructure projects. Manufacturers demonstrated new technology. Shipping companies discussed the implications of rising fuel costs and piracy. Political commentators debated the impact of political instability. And cargo owners delivered plans for future trade expansion.

Following a consultation process with the industry, the 2012 Summit will build on this success by launching a series of new conferences and features to create a multi-stakeholder environment.

The World Ports and Trade Summit is an opportunity for the global ports industry to come together in the new epicentre of port development to learn about new projects, to understand the investment opportunities taking shape, and to find  suppliers who can make projects happen.  

• An international exhibition will provide leading companies the opportunity to showcase services and solutions to to key purchasers in the region

• A programme of investor meetings and knowledge workshops will introduce investors to future projects and give port owners and operators the opportunity to present information to potential partners

• Hosted tours of Khalifa Port, the Industrial Zone and other port facilities in the UAE will bring projects to life and let attendees meet people at the forefront of these developments

• A programme of receptions and dinners will provide a vital networking opportunity for participants to meet and relax outside of the exhibition centre

• A carefully designed mix of keynote conference sessions, panel debates and intimate round table discussions will give delegates the opportunity to hear from the industry's most influential minds, and share knowledge with other attendees from around the world.

And for the very first time in 2012...

Project Cargo & Break Bulk Middle East.
With US$300 billion worth of regional projects due to be awarded in 2012, there are busy times ahead for project cargo specialists. This 2-day conference will bring together cargo owners and companies specialising in the movement of oversized cargoes with unique handling requirements. Read more here...

BRICS Review.
Using a dynamic GIS based presentation area on the show floor, this area will host a series of presentations to deliver a critical insight into trade patterns resulting from economic recovery, and provide infrastructure project updates for the emerging powerhouse economies of Brazil, China, India, Russia and South Africa. Read more here...

Hosted Buyer Meetings.
Through a series of pre-arranged one-to-one meetings, ports equipment and technology providers will be brought face-to-face with technical and operational directors looking to source and specify new products for ports authorities and terminal operators.