3rd European Sustainable Boating Roundtable focusing on sustainable growth amid global trade shifts at Genoa International Boat Show
Brussels/Genoa 24 July 2025 – European Boating Industry (EBI) and Confindustria Nautica are pleased to announce the third edition of the European Sustainable Boating Roundtable, a high-level meeting place between industry and policy event taking place on Friday, 19 September 2025 at 15:00, Forum Hall at the Genoa International Boat Show. This Third European Sustainable Boating Roundtable will build on the success of the past two editions and serve as a key forum for dialogue on the sector’s sustainability and long-term competitiveness.
Under the theme “Resilient & sustainable growth amid global trade shifts” the roundtable will address the strategic importance of the boating industry for regional economies, the sector’s contribution to international trade stability amidst current global economic uncertainty, and how EU policy can further support the industry’s long-term economic sustainability and competitiveness. Given that EU manufacturers are by far the largest exporters of recreational boats, the current shifts in trade and geopolitics are forecast to impact the sector and new strategies will need to be found.
The Roundtable will be opened by Executive Vice-President of the European Commission Raffaele Fitto, whose participation brings high-level political weight to the event. As the Commissioner responsible for Cohesion, Reforms, and strategic oversight of tourism, transport and the blue economy, his presence underlines the importance of aligning regional policy with the future of Europe’s sustainable boating and tourism sectors. This is the first engagement of an EU Commission Executive Vice-President in this mandate of the EU Commission at a boat show.
Panellists for the event include Members of the European Parliament MEP Francesco Torselli and MEP Brando Benifei from Italy, and MEP Željana Zovko from Croatia, as well as Sebastian Nietupski, CEO of Kotniz Group and former President of Polboat. The roundtable will explore how European policy and industry collaboration can reinforce the resilience of Europe’s boating sector, bolster regional economic growth, and sustain Europe’s excellence and competitive edge in the global markets.
This event continues to build on the success of previous editions. The Roundtable has established itself as a key platform for policymakers and industry experts to exchange strategic insights and best practices for the boating sector’s long-term prosperity. It is a key opportunity for industry to directly engage with EU policymakers at the start of the important summer season.
Robert Marx, President of EBI said about the event: “We are excited for the third edition of the EBI Roundtable at the 65 edition of the Genoa International Boat Show and a discussion at a critical time. The ability of our industry to remain competitive depends not only on innovation, but on stable and supportive policy. With the current challenges in global trade, it’s more important than ever that we engage directly with EU decision-makers. This Roundtable creates the space for that dialogue and ensures the voice of the boating industry is clearly heard.”
Piero Formenti, President of Confindustria Nautica, stated: “The European Sustainable Boating Roundtable is a key moment to show how Europe’s boating industry is driving sustainability and competitiveness on the global stage. Together with our partner European Boating Industry, we’re proud to host this third edition at the Genoa International Boat Show – which, on the same day, will also feature the World Yachting Sustainability Forum, confirming the Show as the central hub for innovation in our sector.”
Fabio Planamente, Vice President of Confindustria Nautica and newly appointed EBI Special Representative for the Large Yacht Sector, commented: “Holding roles within both Confindustria Nautica and EBI provides a unique opportunity to reinforce the alignment between national priorities and European strategies. The Roundtable represents a pivotal platform to promote a shared vision for a sustainable and competitive future for the boating industry, ensuring our sector’s interests are effectively represented in the European policy arena.”
Early registration is strongly recommended as seating is limited. To secure your place, please register promptly via the following link.
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About European Boating Industry (EBI)
EBI represents the recreational boating industry in Europe. It encompasses all related sectors, such as boatbuilding, equipment manufacturing, marinas and service providers. The industry is a significant contributor to the European economy, representing 32,000 companies, predominantly SMEs that employ over 280,000 people directly. The mission of EBI is to advance and represent a sustainable boating and nautical tourism industry
About Confindustria Nautica – Italian Marine Industry Association
Confindustria Nautica (Italian Marine Industry Association) is a non-profit organisation founded in 1967 to promote maritime culture and tourism as well as develop the boating industry. The Association is a member of Confindustria (the Federation of Italian Industry). It offers support and representation to its members operating across the various sectors of production, sales and services. Confindustria Nautica organises the Genoa International Boat Show, the largest event of its kind in the Mediterranean.
