The global marine fuels and bunkering community will gather once again in Rotterdam this October as ARACON 2026 returns to the Hilton Rotterdam Hotel for three days of industry discussion, networking, and collaboration. Organised by ship.energy, ARACON is an annual conference dedicated to the marine fuels and bunkering sector in the Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Antwerp (ARA) region. The event brings together senior executives, technical experts, policymakers, shipowners, fuel suppliers, traders, port representatives, and technology innovators to examine the evolving challenges and opportunities shaping the future of marine fuel supply chains. Under the theme of Annual review: does the bunker industry need to do business better – or differently? , ARACON 2026 will explore key industry developments including fuel supply trends, regulatory compliance, digitalisation, fuel quality, financial resilience, and the growing role of alternative fuels in shipping’s energy transition. The conference programme will feature expert keynote presentations, interactive panel discussions, case studies, a biofuels course and extensive networking opportunities, alongside an exhibition space showcasing technologies and services supporting the sector’s transformation. Key focus areas for ARACON 2026 include: Market trends and supply chain dynamics across the ARA bunkering hub Regulatory developments impacting shipping and fuel suppliers Fuel quality assurance and operational best practice Credit risk, liquidity pressures, and financial resilience within marine fuel markets The accelerating adoption of alternative and lower-carbon marine fuels Building on the success of ARACON 2025, which attracted participants from across the global shipping and bunkering sectors, the 2026 edition is expected to provide another important platform for industry stakeholders to exchange insights, strengthen partnerships, and discuss practical pathways for the future of marine energy. “ARACON continues to serve as a v