The 4th Annual Houston International Maritime Conference (HIMC25) concluded successfully at the Hilton Americas in downtown Houston, marking a milestone event with a record-breaking attendance of more than 850 professionals representing the global supply chain, petrochemical, energy, container, and maritime sectors. Hosted by Port Houston, the conference has rapidly established itself as one of the premier maritime gatherings in the United States, providing an essential platform for leaders and innovators shaping the future of international trade and maritime operations.
The 2025 edition featured a comprehensive program that included a dynamic mix of panel discussions, keynote sessions, and networking opportunities. Industry experts addressed critical issues such as supply chain resiliency, infrastructure investment, tanker shipping trends, petrochemical trade, and digital transformation. The event served as a collaborative forum for exchanging ideas and strategies to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of maritime logistics in a rapidly changing global environment.
Every year this event grows in scope and impact,” said Charlie Jenkins, CEO of Port Houston. “HIMC brings together every segment of our industry to discuss solutions that will keep Houston and the nation’s maritime gateway strong for decades to come. With this year’s expanded agenda, we reflected the full spectrum of industries that make the Houston Ship Channel the most vital waterway in the U.S.” Jenkins’ remarks underscored the event’s growing influence and its role in advancing the competitiveness of Houston’s port system, which serves as a major hub for U.S. trade and petrochemical exports.
Held from November 2–5, 2025, the four-day conference offered more than a dozen expert-led sessions exploring diverse topics such as tariffs and trade policy, the evolution of the global energy and petrochemical markets, port infrastructure developments, tanker market dynamics, and innovations in supply chain management. The agenda also featured interactive discussions on education, workforce development, and the integration of technology and data analytics into logistics and port operations—reflecting the industry’s increasing focus on modernization and talent cultivation.
Among the key highlights of HIMC25 was a captivating fireside chat with Captain Richard Phillips, the real-life mariner whose story inspired the Hollywood film Captain Phillips. In conversation with Eric Casey, Port Houston’s Chief Operating Officer, Captain Phillips shared personal leadership insights and lessons learned from his dramatic experience at sea. Another major highlight was a special keynote address by Jim Teague, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Director of Enterprise Products, who was also honored with the prestigious Lone Star Award for his contributions to the energy and maritime sectors.
In addition, attendees were treated to a thought-provoking discussion between Dr. Ricaurte “Catin” Vásquez, CEO of the Panama Canal Authority, and CNBC journalist Lori Ann LaRocco, who together offered valuable perspectives on the challenges and future outlook for global trade and canal operations amid changing geopolitical and environmental conditions. The conference also placed strong emphasis on student engagement, encouraging young professionals and students to explore maritime career opportunities and connect with seasoned industry leaders.
A defining aspect of HIMC25 was its role as a platform for collaboration. Supported by an active HIMC Advisory Committee, which includes influential figures from the public and private sectors, academia, logistics, and energy, the event built upon the legacy of previous sold-out editions. The 2025 conference’s expanded agenda reflected Houston’s growing leadership position in liquid bulk, chemical tanker, and container shipping markets, reinforcing its status as a global maritime powerhouse.
At Port Houston, we don’t simply react to shifts in the market—we plan for them,” Jenkins added. “HIMC allows us to come together as an industry to share best practices and position Houston as the anchor for America’s maritime future.” His statement captured the forward-thinking ethos that has defined HIMC since its inception, emphasizing proactive industry collaboration to ensure resilience and competitiveness in an evolving trade environment.
As HIMC25 concluded, attention turned to the future of the conference. Organizers announced that the 5th Annual Houston International Maritime Conference (HIMC26) will return to the Hilton Americas in Houston on November 3–4, 2026. In recognition of the strong support from sponsors and participants, Port Houston confirmed that it would honor 2025 sponsorship pricing for organizations that commit to sponsoring HIMC26 by March 2026.
The success of HIMC25 once again underscored Houston’s pivotal role in the global maritime economy and its commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth across the international shipping and logistics landscape. With each passing year, the Houston International Maritime Conference continues to strengthen its reputation as a central meeting point for industry decision-makers, providing vital insights and connections that help shape the future of maritime trade.
About Port Houston
For more than 100 years, Port Houston has owned and operated the public wharves and terminals along the Houston Ship Channel, including the area’s largest breakbulk facility and two of the most efficient container terminals in the country. Port Houston is the advocate and a strategic leader for the Channel. The Houston Ship Channel complex and its more than 200 private and eight public terminals is the nation’s largest port for waterborne tonnage and an essential economic engine for the Houston region, the state of Texas and the U.S. The Port of Houston supports the creation of nearly 1.5 million jobs in Texas and 3.37 million jobs nationwide, and economic activity totaling $439 billion in Texas and $906 billion in economic impact across the nation. For more information, visit the website at PortHouston.com.
