Maritime Matters

In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Dr Matthias Catón, Managing Director of the German Maritime Centre, welcomes Claus Ulrich Selbach, Vice President Exhibitions Maritime & Energy at Hamburg Messe und Congress. The discussion centres on Hamburg’s role as a maritime hub, the city’s unique advantages for convening the international shipping and energy industries, and the future of trade fairs, innovation, and cluster development. Uli shares reflections from over 25 years in the events sector, offering insights into how Hamburg has grown its reputation as a global meeting place for maritime professionals.

In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Dr Matthias Catón, Managing Director of the German Maritime Centre, is joined by Vidar Helgesen, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission at UNESCO. Drawing on his extensive experience in international ocean governance, including previous roles in the Norwegian government and the Nobel Foundation, Vidar Helgesen shares insights into global efforts to deepen our understanding of the ocean and protect its vital resources. The conversation covers the mission and achievements of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, the UN Ocean Decade and its key milestones, and the emerging importance of the private sector in data sharing. The episode also delves into the new BBNJ treaty governing biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction and explores how innovation, regulation, and collaboration are shaping the future of the blue economy.

In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Dr Matthias Catón, Managing Director of the German Maritime Centre, is joined by Dr Joachim Harms, Chairman of the Board at the German Marine Research Alliance (Deutsche Allianz Meeresforschung – DAM). Together, they explore why robust cooperation between marine research and the maritime industry is key to protecting our oceans in an era of rapid industrialisation and climate change. Joachim Harms draws on a distinguished career in marine biology and science policy to discuss the Alliance’s “mission-style” approach, bringing together researchers, industry, authorities, and civil society. This episode sheds light on DAM’s priority projects, the importance of including local communities, new tools for monitoring and innovation, and how German marine research is contributing to sustainable ocean use amid growing pressures.

In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Dr Matthias Catón, Managing Director of the German Maritime Centre, is joined by Captain Vikas Vij, Director and Treasurer of the Indian Maritime Centre, and Mr Ravi Kumar Moka, Ship Surveyor and Deputy Director General at the Directorate General of Shipping. Together, they take a deep dive into the transformation underway across India’s coastal shipping sector, examining the government’s ambitious targets, public and private collaboration, and prospects for international engagement. Captain Vij and Mr Moka provide expert perspectives on the evolving Indian logistics network, regulatory reforms, shipbuilding aspirations, and where knowledge and investment partnerships are most needed as India looks to expand its maritime footprint.

In this episode of Maritime Matters, host Dr. Matthias Catón sits down with Jaap Gebraad, Secretary General of the Waterborne Technology Platform, to dive deep into the future of the European maritime and inland navigation sectors. Jaap Gebraad shares his expertise on how the Waterborne Technology Platform brings together diverse stakeholders, from shipyards and equipment manufacturers to research institutions, across Europe to shape a unified research and innovation agenda. Together, they discuss major EU funding mechanisms, the challenges and opportunities in moving towards zero-emission waterborne transport, and the unique role of digitalisation in the maritime industry. With practical insights on EU collaboration and funding, and stories about hidden maritime gems, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of European shipping and innovation.

In this episode, host Dr. Matthias Catón, Managing Director of the German Maritime Centre, sits down with Dr. Reinhard Lüken, a leading figure in the European maritime sector and Chairman of the German Maritime Centre. Together, they explore the landscape of European shipbuilding, discussing its strategic importance, current competitiveness, and the challenges posed by global market shifts – particularly those driven by Asia. Dr. Lüken draws on decades of experience in both German and European maritime organisations to offer critical insights on industrial policy, the impact of protectionist measures abroad, and what Europe can do to secure its future in shipbuilding. The conversation also touches on innovation, sustainability, and the vital skills needed to maintain and grow the industry. Tune in for expert analysis, candid discussion, and some nautical numbers that might just surprise you.