Ocean Connect Asia to launch with focus on AI and autonomy in the blue economy
The inaugural Ocean Connect Asia (OCA) opens in Singapore on 31 March, bringing together government agencies, enterprise decision-makers and offshore industry operators for a two-day showcase dedicated to marine, hydrographic and uncrewed technologies.
The event is co-located with Geo Connect Asia, Digital Construction Asia, and Drones & Uncrewed Asia, with the combined programme expected to attract more than 3,000 attendees. Around 45% of participants are specifically interested in the opportunities presented by the blue ocean economy.
AI, autonomy and robotics at the forefront
The Ocean Connect Asia Conference centres on the theme of AI, autonomy, robotics and uncrewed solutions as drivers of a sustainable blue economy. The conference features an influential speaker line-up, including senior representatives from the Marine and Port Authority of Singapore, the Philippines' Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and Petronas. Industry participants include Sonardyne, MacArtney Singapore, Riegl International, SBG Systems and Emesent, among others.
A platform built for a strategically vital region
Ocean Connect Asia builds on five years of development alongside Geo Connect Asia, the region's flagship geospatial event. Previously introduced as Marine & Hydro Asia, the marine-focused programme attracted 16% of Geo Connect Asia's 2,930 attendees in 2025 – reflecting strong and growing engagement from blue economy leaders, marine scientists and uncrewed systems innovators.
The event is being held against the backdrop of ASEAN's emergence as the world's fourth-largest economy, with a population of over 660 million and a GDP nearing USD3 trillion. The region's coastal, island and ocean territories are central to trade, energy and societal development, while also facing mounting pressure from climate change and shifting geopolitical dynamics. Singapore, as a global maritime hub, provides a fitting setting for the event and its sister programmes.
