Singapore Maritime Foundation gathers industry leaders to share insights at SMF New Year Conversations 2026

Yesterday, more than 250 industry leaders representing the public and private sectors across Singapore’s diverse maritime ecosystem attended the SMF New Year Conversations 2026. Mr. Murali Pillai, Senior Minister of State for Law and Transport, graced the event as Guest-of-Honour and delivered the opening address.

A highlight of the SMF New Year Conversations 2026 was a panel that discussed the outlook for the year ahead amid volatility and risks. Moderator was Andreas Sohmen-Pao, Chairman, BW Group, and distinguished panellists were Jan Dieleman, President, Cargill Ocean Transportation; Rolf Thore Roppestad, Chairman of IG Group and Chief Executive Officer, Gard; Nicholas Brown, CEO, Lloyd’s Register; Ms. Harvonne Yap, Vice President, Products Freight Trading, Shell; and Jeremy Sutton, CEO, Swire Shipping.

“Through platforms such as the annual New Year Conversations, the Singapore Maritime Foundation brings the industry together and provides an avenue for senior leaders across the ecosystem to connect, take stock of the industry’s developments, and share insights,” said Mr. Hor Weng Yew (pictured), Chairman, Singapore Maritime Foundation. “As a trusted partner to both the public and private sectors, SMF will continue to work closely with our stakeholders to drive collective action on strategic priorities such as building the talent pipeline and enhancing Maritime Singapore’s competitiveness.”