Established in 2004, PEMA has served as
existing fire protection systems and ask the fire brigade to help – even there, there is still a lack of competency.” During PEMA’s recent AGM in Gdańsk, the audience saw an expert presentation on the necessary measures for managing battery fires effectively. The organisation is now going a step further, by introducing better guidelines for members. “Battery-powered equipment introduces
new fire hazards that require updated risk assessments and safety protocols,” says Achim. “PEMA is actively addressing this by developing industry guidelines and best practices to help operators manage these emerging risks effectively. Our collaborative approach ensures that safety standards evolve in line with technological advancements, maintaining the safety and reliability of port operations.” Both the cybersecurity paper and guidance
on battery fires form part of PEMA’s growing library of white papers and information briefs, providing concrete guidance on some of the industry’s most pressing challenges.
Continued growth PEMA’s new tagline launched at its AGM is ‘Connecting Minds. Leading the Industry’. This underlines the association’s commitment to collaboration, innovation, representation and education.
An expert presentation about battery fires at PEMA’s AGM in Gdańsk.
a platform and collective public voice for the worldwide port equipment and technology industries. Over its 21 years, the association has seen significant expansion, with membership now standing at 120 companies. Today, its members encompass a broad range of the sector internationally, including manufacturers of cranes, port equipment and components, providers of automation, software and technology, as well as consultants and other industry specialists. “Since taking on the presidency, I’ve seen
PEMA grow not just in membership numbers, but in influence and technical output,” says Achim. “We’ve welcomed new members from across the globe, reflecting the increasing diversity and innovation in the port equipment sector.” He cites the key benefit of PEMA membership as access – to knowledge, to networks and to a neutral platform for shaping the future of the industry. “Our white papers, working groups and outreach initiatives help members stay ahead of regulatory, technological and market trends,” he adds. PEMA members gain exclusive access to beneficial resources as part of their membership. This includes market surveys and reports, informational white papers, technical committee participation, meetings and workshops, insightful data reports and expert presentations. Recent paper topics include: Battery and
Charging Solutions In Ports and Terminals; Laser Technology in Port Terminals; Fire Detection and Suppression Systems for Mobile Port Equipment; and Diesel and Alternative Power, with more to come this year. PEMA also publishes an annual global survey of STS container crane deliveries, now in its 12th year. Achim also highlights an additional benefit – a connected networking environment. “Of course, many of our members are also
competitors,” he says. “But that’s precisely where PEMA’s strength lies – we provide a trusted space where collaboration serves a higher purpose – advancing global standards, improving safety and accelerating the transition to smarter, greener ports. We focus on shared challenges, not commercial advantage, and that spirit of mutual progress is what keeps our association strong.”
Future outlook Despite being beset by multiple challenges, PEMA’s members retain an optimistic outlook – albeit with a note of caution. “Sentiment among our members is cautiously positive,” says Achim. “Long-term catalysts – decarbonisation, digitalisation, resilient global trade – continue to drive demand for new equipment and upgrades. However, economic volatility, geopolitical tension and supply chain uncertainty are prompting measured forecasting and disciplined capital allocation.” In Europe, port equipment seems set to be a beneficiary of the EU’s Readiness 2030 strategy, launched in March. In total, up to €800bn is pledged to enhance defence and dual-use infrastructure, including ports and logistics hubs. In addition, a joint EU–Nato assessment in June identified strategic ports vulnerable in a possible conflict. The EU proposed up to €75bn over the next EU budget to upgrade transport and port infrastructure in these areas. “These developments mean port equipment investments are now deeply entwined with EU goals,” says Achim. “That alignment brings stronger public support and co-funding, which reduces risk and reinforces confidence.” To become a PEMA member or learn more about its benefits, email the PEMA administration team at
info@pema.org.
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