From 17 to 23 June 2028, Antwerp will host the 36th PIANC World Congress. Held every four years, the congress brings together professionals and experts in waterborne transport infrastructure to exchange knowledge, research and new developments shaping the sector. The 2028 edition will focus on “Innovative & Sustainable Transition”, a theme that reflects some of the most important challenges facing ports, inland navigation, waterways and maritime infrastructure today: how can innovation and sustainability work together to shape the future of waterborne transport? 

What is the PIANC World Congress?

PIANC stands for The World Association for Waterborne Transport Infrastructure. Founded in 1885, the international non-profit organisation brings together experts from around the world working on sustainable waterborne infrastructure. Through technical working groups, publications and international events, PIANC encourages the exchange of knowledge across disciplines and borders. The PIANC World Congress takes place every four years and is one of the organisation’s key international events. It offers both PIANC members and other professionals in the sector an opportunity to share expertise, discuss new developments and explore current issues within waterborne transport infrastructure. Following the 35th edition in Cape Town in 2024, the congress will move to Antwerp in 2028. As one of Europe’s major port cities, Antwerp provides a fitting setting for an international event centred on infrastructure, waterways and transport.

When will the PIANC World Congress Antwerp 2028 take place?

The 36th PIANC World Congress will take place from 17 to 23 June 2028 in Antwerp, Belgium. According to the current official information, the congress will be hosted at A Room with a ZOO – Heritage Congress Venue, in the centre of Antwerp. The full programme will be announced closer to 2028. PIANC congresses traditionally focus on technical knowledge-sharing, professional exchange and current developments within waterborne transport infrastructure.

Combine PIANC 2028 with a stay in Antwerp

Delegates travelling to Antwerp for the PIANC World Congress 2028 will be staying in a compact and well-connected city. Antwerp Central Station provides national and international rail connections, while restaurants, shops and the historic city centre are all within easy reach. For international participants, choosing a hotel in central Antwerp can therefore be particularly convenient, especially when combining the congress with business meetings or an additional stay before or after the event.

Hyllit Hotel is located on De Keyserlei, approximately 200 metres from Antwerp Central Station, making it a practical base for visitors staying in the city during PIANC World Congress Antwerp 2028.