International Antifouling Conference to return in 2027 as shipping industry prepares for future global biofouling rules

The International Antifouling Conference, a leading biennial forum for the global marine biofouling management and antifouling technology community, will return to the iconic Eriksberg ship repair building in Gothenburg, Sweden, for its fourth edition between 14 -16 September 2027.

Hosted by Swedish antifouling technology company I-Tech AB, the conference has established itself as a central meeting place for marine coating experts, researchers, academics, regulators, technology developers, and ship operators to explore the latest developments in biofouling prevention. The conference provides a unique opportunity to peer into the future antifouling landscape and explore the role that biofouling prevention plays in supporting the decarbonisation ambitions of the international shipping industry.

Alongside the shipping industry's drive to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in line with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Net Zero Framework (NZF), the IMO is beginning to work on developing an internationally binding, legal framework that would globally regulate biofouling management on ships.

When combined, these regulatory goliaths would place unprecedented emphasis on the vital role of antifouling technologies in improving vessel efficiency, reducing emissions and supporting regulatory compliance.

Markus Jönsson, CEO at I-Tech, commented:

"Access to the latest research, real-world operational experience and gaining knowledge of future antifouling technology developments is more important than ever before. As shipping continues its transition towards a lower-carbon future, it is imperative that stakeholders across the industry collaborate and share knowledge around how to minimise the impact of what grows on surfaces below the waterline. As the organisers of this forum, we are delighted to welcome the community back to Gothenburg in September 2027 for what promises to be our most insightful conference yet."

The submission of abstracts from experts interested in presenting at the conference is welcomed until 31 March 2027.

The organisers are also inviting companies and organisations from across the marine coatings, shipping and maritime technology sectors to support the conference through a range of sponsorship opportunities. As the sector prepares for significant regulatory and technological developments in biofouling management, sponsors will be positioned at the centre of the discussions shaping the future of antifouling innovation.

Full details on the conference, abstract submissions, and contact persons for sponsorship opportunities can be found on the conference website: https://www.international-antifouling-conference.com/.