February 10, 2026

The International Council of Marine Industry Associations (ICOMIA) and the International Federation of Boat Show Organizers (IFBSO) will convene the ICOMIA & IFBSO Congress 2026 in Washington, D.C. from 24–28 May 2026, hosted by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA).

Set in the United States—widely recognised as the largest market in the global recreational boat market by revenue share—Congress 2026 comes at a pivotal time for international collaboration, trade dialogue, and market development across the leisure marine sector.

“Bringing the ICOMIA and IFBSO Congress to Washington, D.C. offers a unique opportunity for global marine industry leaders to come together at a time when collaboration and shared insight are more important than ever,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, NMMA president and CEO and board president of ICOMIA. “As host, NMMA looks forward to welcoming delegates for meaningful dialogue, practical exchange and a deeper connection to the policy, innovation and partnerships that will shape the future of recreational boating worldwide.”

With shifting trade conditions influencing supply chains, pricing, exhibitor planning, and international participation, the Congress provides a timely platform for marine industry associations and boat show organizers to exchange intelligence, strengthen partnerships, and explore opportunities to grow participation and expand the boating lifestyle across regions

“Congress is where boat show organizers and marine industry associations turn shared challenges into practical ideas that strengthen our events and accelerate market growth,” said Veda Pretorius, Executive Manager of IFBSO . “In 2026, meeting in the United States creates an exceptional opportunity to learn from a global benchmark—especially in how data, consumer insight and experience-led strategies can be used to attract new audiences and strengthen value for exhibitors.”

A highlight of the 2026 programme will be learning from NMMA’s leadership in audience development and demand generation. NMMA’s Discover Boating initiative—powered by NMMA (and in partnership with the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas)—has become a recognized benchmark for engaging new entrants into boating and connecting consumers to the industry through sustained, multi-channel campaigns and measurable performance outcomes.

“Hosting Congress in Washington, D.C. also creates a strong opportunity for ICOMIA and our members to deepen engagement across the Americas,” said Joe Lynch, CEO of ICOMIA. “Being in closer geographic proximity makes it more accessible for marine industry associations and boat shows across Southern, Central and North America to join the conversation—strengthening regional connections and supporting continued membership growth and collaboration.”

Congress week will combine high-level networking and knowledge exchange with curated on-the-ground experiences, including marina visits, a guided tour of the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress, and a comprehensive Partners Programme designed to complement the delegate programme and maximize the overall experience.

Find out more details about ICOMIA & IFBSO Congress 2026 here https://www.icomia.org/events-all/

About ICOMIA

ICOMIA – the International Council of Marine Industry Associations – is a not-for-profit membership organisation. We bring together a wide range of national marine industry associations into a single global organisation and represent them internationally. Presenting a strong, united voice when addressing challenging issues, the association has been advocating for the marine industry since 1966.

www.icomia.org

About IFBSO

The International Federation of Boat Show Organisers (IFBSO) is a global association representing the interests of boat show organisers worldwide. Founded in 1964, IFBSO promotes excellence in boat show management, fosters international cooperation, and advances the interests of the recreational marine industry. The federation’s members collectively attract over 1.5 million water-sport enthusiasts to their shows each year, driving excitement for the marine lifestyle and supporting boat sales worldwide. As of January 2026, IFBSO represents 33 boat shows in 17 countries.

www.ifbso.com

About NMMA

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) is the nation’s leading trade association representing boat, marine engine and accessory manufacturers. Collectively, NMMA members manufacture an estimated 85 per cent of the marine products used in North America.

NMMA is a unifying force and powerful voice for the recreational boating industry, working to strengthen and grow boating and protect the interests of its member companies.

www.nmma.org