Description:

Visit of Euroports, a logistics service provider with water connected terminals and ample experience in the handling of (fluff) pulp, paper and newsprint.

• Drive alongside the Antwerp port facilities on the left bank of the river Scheldt.
• Tour by boat cruising the river Scheldt with view on the largest  container terminals MPET and Antwerp Gateway
• Opening reception on the boat, hosted by Port of Antwerp-Bruges 
• Networking with delegates of the conference and port service providers handling forest products

Timings subject to change

Description:

Attendance at the evening reception only (without Port Tour)
Timings subject to change

• Overview of current trends in the global forest industry
• Analysis of key drivers impacting forest product markets
• Examination of challenges and opportunities facing the forest industry
• Regional perspectives on forest industry performance and growth
• Insights into market demand for various forest products such as lumber, pulp, and paper
• Discussion on sustainability initiatives and their influence on market dynamics
• Forecasts for future market trends and potential implications for stakeholders

Q&A session for participants to engage with Brian McClay and delve deeper into each topic

• Assessment of current trends and dynamics in the global shipping industry
• Analysis of key factors influencing shipping market conditions, including freight rates, vessel supply and demand, and regulatory changes
• Overview of regional shipping market performance and trends, including major trade routes and ports
• Discussion on the impact of geopolitical events, such as trade tensions and sanctions, on shipping market stability
• Insights into emerging technologies and innovations shaping the future of the shipping industry
• Examination of sustainability initiatives and their implications for shipping operations
• Forecasts for future shipping market trends and potential challenges and opportunities for stakeholders

• Evaluation of how the EU ETS aligns with sustainability and decarbonisation strategies 
• Analysis of the EU ETS’s effectiveness in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and its implications for companies in the pulp, paper, packaging, logistics and transport sectors.
• Comparison with other emissions trading schemes globally and their relevance to these industries.
• Identification of challenges, opportunities, and potential reforms to enhance sustainability and competitiveness within the EU ETS framework for the pulp paper packaging and logistics transport sectors.

• Technological advancements: Recent developments in carbon future fuel technologies, including production methods, storage, and distribution infrastructure
• Policy support: Understanding government policies and incentives to promote the adoption of carbon future fuels in the forest transport logistics sector
• Challenges and considerations: Overcoming challenges such as cost, infrastructure requirements, and scalability
• Case studies: Successful implementation of carbon future fuels in forest transport logistics, showcasing real-world benefits and lessons learned
• Future outlook: Discuss the potential role of carbon future fuels in achieving sustainability goals in the forest transport logistics sector and opportunities for further innovation and collaboration

• Supply chain disruptions: Impact of canal blockages on transport logistics, leading to delays in raw material delivery, inventory shortages, and production setbacks.
• Increased costs: Rising transportation expenses for paper pulp and packaging due to longer transit times, route diversions, and heightened freight rates during canal disruptions.
• Inventory management challenges: Difficulty in maintaining adequate stock levels and meeting customer demand amidst canal traffic interruptions, necessitating agile inventory strategies and contingency plans.
• Adaptation strategies: Measures to enhance resilience, including route diversification, collaboration with logistics partners, and adoption of digital supply chain technologies for improved visibility and responsiveness.

• Market trends: Overview of current macroeconomic trends impacting the paper pulp and packaging industry, including shifts in consumer behavior, globalization, and technological advancements.
• Supply and demand dynamics: Analysis of global supply and demand factors influencing the paper pulp and packaging market, such as raw material availability, production capacities, and end-user demand patterns.
• Trade dynamics: Examination of international trade dynamics affecting the paper pulp and packaging sector, including trade policies, tariffs, and trade agreements, and their impact on market competitiveness and expansion opportunities.
• Sustainability initiatives: Discussion on the role of sustainability initiatives and environmental regulations in shaping the paper pulp and packaging industry, including circular economy principles, eco-friendly packaging solutions, and corporate sustainability commitments.

• Technological advancements: Highlight recent innovations and investments in forest industry technologies, such as automation, digitalization, and sustainable forestry practices.
• Expansion projects: Overview of major investment initiatives and expansion projects in the forest industry, including new mills, production facilities, and infrastructure developments.
• Sustainability initiatives: Discussion on industry-wide efforts to enhance sustainability, including reforestation programs, certification schemes, and carbon offset projects.
• Market outlook: Analysis of current market trends and future growth prospects in the forest industry, including demand projections, price forecasts, and emerging market opportunities

• Shortage of personnel: Addressing challenges related to the scarcity of skilled workers in the paper pulp and packaging industry, particularly in logistics roles, and exploring potential solutions to attract and retain talent.
• Career pathways in logistics: Highlighting the diverse career opportunities available within the logistics sector of the paper pulp and packaging industry, emphasizing the skills and qualifications needed for success.
• Industry needs: Identifying the specific requirements and expectations of the paper pulp and packaging industry to attract and retain talented individuals in logistics roles, including training programs, career development opportunities, and competitive compensation packages.
• Collaboration and innovation: Discussing collaborative efforts between industry stakeholders, educational institutions, and government agencies to promote careers in logistics within the paper pulp and packaging sector, and leveraging innovation to create attractive employment prospects.

• Enhanced efficiency: Exploring how AI technologies can optimize route planning, vehicle scheduling, and fleet management processes to improve operational efficiency and reduce transportation costs.
• Predictive maintenance: Discussing the potential of AI-driven predictive maintenance systems to anticipate equipment failures and optimize maintenance schedules, minimizing downtime and enhancing vehicle reliability.
• Safety improvements: Examining the role of AI-powered systems such as autonomous vehicles, collision avoidance systems, and driver monitoring solutions in enhancing road safety and reducing accident rates in the transportation sector.
• Data privacy and security: Addressing concerns regarding the collection, storage, and usage of sensitive data in AI-driven transportation systems, and discussing strategies to safeguard passenger privacy and protect against cybersecurity threats.

• Harmonization efforts: Exploring ongoing initiatives and collaborations aimed at establishing uniform standards for ship’s shore power connections across different ports and regions, facilitating interoperability and compatibility.
• Technical specifications: Discussing the technical requirements and specifications for shore power connections, including voltage levels, frequency, plug types, and power capacity, to ensure seamless integration with vessels of varying sizes and configurations.
• Regulatory framework: Analysing the regulatory landscape governing shore power infrastructure deployment and usage, including international standards, local regulations, and industry guidelines, and identifying opportunities for alignment and harmonization.
• Economic considerations: Assessing the cost implications and economic benefits of standardizing ship’s shore power connections, including upfront investment costs, operational savings, environmental benefits, and long-term sustainability.