International shipping transports more than 80 per cent of global trade to peoples and communities all over the world, shipping is the most efficient and cost-effective method of international transportation for most goods; it provides a dependable, low-cost means of transporting goods globally, facilitating commerce and helping to create prosperity among nations and peoples.

The world relies on a safe, secure and efficient international shipping industry, which is an essential component of any programme for future sustainable green economic growth in a sustainable manner. The promotion of sustainable shipping and sustainable maritime development is one of the major priorities of IMO. Energy efficiency, new technology and innovation, maritime education and training, maritime security, maritime traffic management and the development of maritime infrastructure all depend on the development and implementation of global standards. These standards underpin IMO’s commitment to provide the institutional framework necessary for a green and sustainable global maritime transportation system.

The 2026–2027 World Maritime Day theme, “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence,” places a spotlight on one of the most fundamental challenges in global maritime governance: ensuring that the rules developed at the international level translate into real-world improvements. For nearly 80 years, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has built a comprehensive body of conventions, codes and guidelines to promote safe, secure, efficient and environmentally sound shipping. The true value of this framework, however, is realized only when it is effectively implemented, enforced and embedded in day-to-day maritime operations. For the first time, the IMO World Maritime Day theme will run for a biennium. The 2026–2027 theme highlights IMO’s clear commitment to putting policies into practice by providing technical assistance, training, capacity-building, knowledge sharing and other essential services to support Member States and partners across the maritime sector.

Links:
World Maritime Day