Chair of OCEAN's Excise expert group, Victor Aguilera, argues that in OCEAN' 50th anniversary, European ship suppliers face rising pressure from environmental rules, tax digitalization, and customs reform, reshaping costs and operations. Heading into the neyt 50 years, OCEAN must guide members, harmonize compliance, and influence policymakers to ensure sector competitiveness. At the same time, geopolitical shifts and security concerns demand proactive engagement to protect Europe’s strategic trade interests.

As OCEAN celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026, our new logo signals a leap into the future of ship supply in Europe. It combines maritime heritage with European identity, embodying innovation, cross-border collaboration, and the dynamic nature of our sector, argues Arne Mielken, Secretary General of OCEAN.

Former Secretary General of OCEAN and UECBV reflects on 15 years of impactful collaboration between the two organisations from 2005 to 2019, highlighting shared priorities in meat trade, veterinary policy, and customs facilitation.

As OCEAN turns 50 in 2026, the Cyprus Ship Suppliers Association (CSSA) reflects on its role in EU policy, regional cooperation, and the vital bridge Cyprus plays between Europe and the Mediterranean’s Southern Neighborhood.

What does a half-century of representing ship suppliers across Europe look like? And why is it more relevant than ever in today’s changing trade and customs landscape? Nick Mavrikos, Chair of the Greek Ship Suppliers & Exporters Association, sat down with Executive Director Arne Mielken to reflect on the past, the present, and the future of OCEAN as the organisation approaches its 50th anniversary in 2026.

OCEAN – The European Ship Suppliers Organization – will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026, marking five decades of service, advocacy, and industry leadership. Vice-Chair Carl Forsman shares preliminary ideas for a year-long celebration focused on honouring the past, navigating the present, and shaping the future.