On 16 September, IAPH signed a Memorandum of Understanding with one of its members, Sohar Port and Freezone, marking a significant step forward in a strategic partnership aimed at deepening collaboration across global port sustainability, digital innovation, regulatory engagement and maritime excellence. The MoU was signed by Patrick Verhoeven, managing director of IAPH and by Emile Hoogsteden, CEO of Sohar Port and Freezone, at the conclusion of the Sohar Maritime Excellence Showcase – a special event at the London International Shipping Week 2025 Global Hub, based in County Hall.

The event, which presented the port and freezone as ‘the gateway to Oman’ highlighted the country’s candidacy for category C status at the International Maritime Organization. Sohar Port and Freezone is a 50:50 joint venture between the Port of Rotterdam and the Government of the Sultanate of Oman. Emile Hoogsteden will participate in the opening plenary panel on 7 October at #IAPH2025: ‘reinventing maritime trade to preserve prosperity in turbulent times’.
Source: IAPH