Members of the Port Equipment Manufacturers Association (PEMA) from across the globe gathered in Lisbon, Portugal, for the PEMA Annual General Meeting 2026. In the increasingly digital world of online meetings, PEMA continues its tradition of bringing the industry leaders together in person in great locations. Following the success of its 2025 events in Gdańsk, Poland, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, this year’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) took place in Lisbon – one of Europe’s most historic and popular cities for international business events.

Set against the backdrop of Lisbon’s Atlantic coastline, PEMA President Achim Dries welcomed members and industry experts for a two-day conference. This fantastic event provided a platform for senior representatives from across the port and terminal sector to connect, share insights and explore the future of global trade and logistics. The comprehensive programme included technical committee meetings, interactive workshops, expert-led panel discussions, and keynote presentations from leading industry voices. As always, this year’s PEMA AGM served as a key forum for discussing emerging trends, addressing shared challenges and advancing innovation across the sector.

PEMA members enjoyed the welcome networking reception and a morning walking tour of the city, as part of the event’s health and wellness programme. Delegates enjoyed seeing São Jorge Castle, overlooking the historic centre, from Rossio. The group enjoyed the Pastel de nata (local pastry) as they made their way back up towards the top of Parque Eduardo VII, a viewpoint offering beautiful views over the Tagus River and the southern bank.

On Tuesday, 15th April, the technical committees led by PEMA’s Head of Technology Pat O’Leary took centre stage with in-depth discussions on key topics and advancing white papers and research initiatives. These interactive sessions encourage active participation and knowledge sharing among members, reinforcing PEMA’s role as a leading industry forum.

PEMA President Achim Dries officially opened the AGM by welcoming the members with a special introduction to new PEMA members and reflecting on the association’s continued growth and strategic direction.

“Following the success of our first event in Eastern Europe, we are delighted to bring PEMA AGM 2026 to Lisbon, a beautiful but also dynamic city with a rich maritime heritage. This AGM offers a unique opportunity for our members to collaborate, exchange knowledge and collectively shape the future of our industry. “Together, we continue to strengthen our global network and address the challenges and opportunities ahead; Connecting Minds, Leading the Industry”

Jens Koerting, PEMA Vice President and Treasurer, gave an overview of the 2025 end-of-year PEMA accounts as well as projections for future years and highlighted the importance of sponsorships for upcoming events.

Jean O’Connell presented a comprehensive insight into PEMA’s marketing activities and events across the last year, but also included planned future activities, with great feedback and approval from members on the association’s continued brand growth.

New member enquiry levels are at their highest levels with the PEMA communications platforms, and we are delighted with the latest ideas from the board strategy day. She also outlined the details of the next PEMA members’ event, which takes place at the stunning MarePineta Resort in Ravenna, Italy, including live bookable registration and accommodation links, and the last available sponsorship opportunities for the Autumn Meeting 2026.

Guest speakers included Pedro Leitão (Banco Montepio), Ricardo Sobral (PSA Sines), Leticia Astudillo (Drewry Maritime Advisors) and Grant Morrison (APM Terminals).

In addition to the formal programme, delegates loved the diverse range of networking opportunities, including a networking dinner sponsored by Fogmaker at Casa do Alentejo, located in the historic 17th-century, which was once a casino. The President’s dinner was in Monte Mar with ocean and Port views, providing the ideal setting to reconnect with colleagues and build new professional relationships in the vibrant and culturally rich European capital.

PEMA AGM 2026 attracted a strong international attendance, continuing the association’s momentum and reflecting its growing global reach. President Achim Dries gave thanks to members, partners and sponsors, including Fogmaker and Liebherr, for their support and we look forward to welcoming members to the beautiful Ravenna, one of my favourite places, for what promises to be another outstanding and impactful event.
Source: Port Equipment Manufacturers Association (PEMA)