China Dominates Global Shipbuilding as Green Energy Takes Center Stage at Marintec Show

Credit: Zhu Shenshen / Shanghai Daily

Caption: A man checks a ship model at Marintec China, the world's largest maritime exhibition being held in Shanghai.

The world's largest maritime exhibition, Marintec China, is currently under way in Shanghai, highlighting China's booming shipbuilding industry and the global push toward new and low-carbon technologies. Exhibitors are showcasing everything from advanced shipbuilding techniques and cruisers to cutting-edge new energy innovations.

The exhibition reflects China's industrial resilience and global leadership. According to data from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the nation's shipbuilding sector accounted for approximately 60 percent of the world's total capacity by deadweight tons (DWT) in the first three quarters of 2025.

Spanning a record-breaking 110,000 square meters across 11 exhibition halls, the four-day event hosts over 2,200 exhibitors from more than 40 countries and regions. Overseas participation is robust, accounting for 43 percent of the total, and features major global players like Rolls-Royce, Cummins, Siemens, ABB and Schneider Electric. The show also includes 16 national and regional pavilions, including those of Denmark, Norway and Germany.

Credit: Ti Gong

Caption: China's CATL is demonstrating the extension of its electrification expertise from land to water.

Green transition drives innovation

The transition to new energy and low-carbon technologies is a dominant theme at Marintec China. For the first time, the event features the Marintec Innovation – Energytec Zone, specifically dedicated to showcasing solutions from leading marine renewable energy enterprises.

A major focus is the presence of CATL, the world's largest battery manufacturer for electric vehicles. CATL is demonstrating the extension of its electrification expertise from land to water, pioneering "green, intelligent and sustainable pathways for global shipping," the Chinese firm said on Thursday.

CATL offers comprehensive, one-stop vessel operations, integrating the entire supply chain: from onboard propulsion systems and shore-based charging networks to cloud-based intelligent management. The company has already delivered nearly 900 EVs and holds a commanding position as the global leader in EV battery systems, with nearly 40 percent market share.