Invitation to the FONASBA Annual Meeting 2025
Dear Delegates and Partners,
The National Federation of Ship Brokers and Agents Associations (FONASBA) is delighted to invite you to the FONASBA Annual Meeting 2025, proudly hosted on behalf of the Turkish Chamber of Shipping, the Maritime Association of Shipowners and Agents, and the Turkish Shipbrokers Association. We warmly welcome you to join us for an inspiring and unforgettable gathering of industry leaders and professionals in the vibrant and historic city of Istanbul, Türkiye, from October 14 to 17, 2025.
This year's meeting promises to be an exceptional event, bringing together industry leaders, professionals, and partners from around the world. Istanbul, where East meets West, offers a unique and inspiring setting for our discussions on the future of global shipping and logistics in the process of transformation.
Moving forward with the vision of becoming one of the world's leading maritime countries, Türkiye assumes a critical role in global shipping with its strategic location where continents meet, its strong ship and yacht building industry, and its ever-expanding port infrastructure. The country has been a vital link in international trade routes for centuries, connecting continents and fostering economic growth. This event offers a unique opportunity to delve into Türkiye’s contributions to the global maritime sector, while exploring opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
We are excited to share with you a programme filled with insightful sessions, networking opportunities, and the chance to explore one of the world's most culturally rich cities.
We look forward to welcoming you to Istanbul and ensuring that your experience is both enjoyable and productive.
We would be happy to welcome you to Istanbul with our warm hospitality and ensure that your experience is both enjoyable and productive.
Warm regards,
About the Event
The FONASBA Annual Meeting is a cornerstone event in the global maritime calendar. It offers a strategic platform for collaboration, innovation, and the sharing of knowledge across national and professional boundaries.
This year’s meeting in Istanbul promises a forward-looking agenda featuring:
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Plenary Sessions
Insightful discussions and keynote addresses from distinguished international and local speakers, focusing on the evolving challenges and opportunities within global shipping, logistics, and maritime policy.
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Networking Opportunities
Dedicated spaces and time to foster new connections, deepen existing relationships, and strengthen the ties that support our growing global community. This year, we are especially pleased to welcome a number of new members joining our traditional annual gathering for the first time—bringing fresh perspectives and new countries into the FONASBA family. It’s a prime opportunity to expand our collective reach and build bridges across even more corners of the maritime world.
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Local Industry Immersion
Beyond formal sessions, this year’s programme offers a rare chance to engage directly with Türkiye’s vibrant and highly active maritime sector. Participants will gain first-hand insight into the dynamic operations, innovative practices, and strong community networks that make the local shipping industry both resilient and thriving. These moments are more than just site visits—they are windows into how Turkish maritime professionals shape a globally relevant and locally respected sector.
Guest Information
Flights, Accommodation, Visas, Airport Transfers, Private Tours
FLIGHT INFORMATION
There are two airports in Istanbul serving international flights.
The primary airport IST, Istanbul Airport, is located on the European side of the city and serves as a major hub, particularly for Turkish Airlines and many international carriers. It is approximately 40 km from the conference hotel.
The second airport SAW, Sabiha Gökçen Airport, is situated on the Asian side and offers a variety of international flight options operated by various airlines. It is approximately 45 km from the conference hotel; however, crossing the Bosphorus Bridge is required as part of the journey.
FONASBA EVENTS AND CONFERENCES DATA COLLECTION AND PROCESSING POLICY
Personal information collected in respect of participation in, or registration for, this event will be limited to that strictly necessary. The data will be held securely by FONASBA and where necessary shared with the host associations. The location of the event may require that personal information be passed outside the European Union. All data held shall be securely destroyed by FONASBA or the host association not more than 12 months after the end of the event when the reconciliation of all accounts have been finalised.
Photographs or video footage taken during the event may be used for FONASBA’s own publicity purposes only and posted to the website or on social media, including the federation Newsletter. An individual may request the FONASBA Secretariat not to publish, or to remove, photographs or video footage. Action to do so will be taken as soon as practicable after the request is received.
HOTEL ACCOMMODATION
We are pleased to announce that our meeting will take place at Swissotel the Bosphorus, a five-star luxury hotel located in the heart of Istanbul, offering stunning panoramic views of the Bosphorus.
Delegates may book their accommodations directly through the official FONASBA 2025 website. For detailed information on room availability and rates, please refer to the Registration section on our website.
We are pleased to inform you that we have secured special rates exclusively for our delegates.
Important Reminder:
To benefit from the early booking discount, all hotel reservations must be paid no later than 7 July 2025.
Reservations made after this date will be subject to the standard conference accommodation rates, without the early booking discount.
Additionally, reservations made on or after 8 September 2025 will be subject to room availability, and current rates will apply.
We strongly recommend securing your preferred room by booking early to ensure a smooth and comfortable stay during FONASBA 2025.
VISA INFORMATION
International attendees traveling to Türkiye for the congress may be required to obtain a visa depending on their nationality. To ensure a smooth entry process, we strongly recommend that you review the visa requirements and begin the application process well in advance of your travel dates.
https://www.mfa.gov.tr/sub.en.mfa?cc4e437c-6769-4d79-9017-10b63c651224
Do You Need a Visa?
Visa requirements vary by country. To check whether you need a visa to enter Türkiye, please visit the official Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Foreign Affairs e-Visa website or consult the nearest Turkish Embassy or Consulate in your country.
E-Visa Application
Many nationalities are eligible to apply for an e-Visa, which allows for a streamlined application process. The e-Visa can be obtained quickly online through the official e-Visa system and is usually processed within minutes.
Sticker Visa Application
For travelers who are not eligible for an e-Visa, a sticker visa must be obtained through the Turkish Embassy or Consulate in your home country. This process may require additional documentation, including an invitation letter, proof of accommodation, and flight reservations. We recommend initiating this process well in advance, as processing times may vary.
Invitation Letter for Visa Application
If you require an invitation letter for your visa application, please send the following information to support@re-actevent.com:
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Full name
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Passport number
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Nationality
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Passport expiry date
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Purpose of participation in the meeting (e.g., “delegate”, “speaker”)
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Planned travel dates (arrival and departure)
Invitation letters will only be issued to delegates who have completed their registration.
Please note that an invitation letter does not guarantee visa approval.
Additional Information
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Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Türkiye.
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Some travelers may be required to present proof of travel insurance or financial means for their stay.
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It is advisable to carry a printed copy of your visa or e-Visa when entering Türkiye.
For the latest updates and detailed visa requirements, please refer to the official website of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs or contact the nearest Turkish diplomatic mission.
We look forward to welcoming you to Türkiye!
AIRPORT TRANSFER SERVICE
Private transfers between Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) and Swissotel The Bosphorus (both ways) can be arranged upon request. The transfer fee will be determined based on the selected service.
To request this service, please complete the Transfer Request Form, where you will also be asked to provide details such as flight arrival and departure information.
For any inquiries or special arrangements, please feel free to contact us support@re-actevent.com.
PRIVATE TOURS
Attendees looking to arrange additional personal trips or excursions—whether in Istanbul or to iconic destinations such as Cappadocia, Ephesus, and Bursa—before or after the Annual Meeting in Istanbul can do so through our designated and trusted tourism partner, REACT Travel Agency.
For personalized arrangements, please contact Mr. Serdar Sezgin directly at support@re-actevent.com to discuss your requirements.
Meeting Venue
Swissotel the Bosphorus Istanbul
Swissotel the Bosphorus is a luxurious hotel located in the heart Istanbul, Turkiye. With stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait and the city skyline, guests can enjoy a truly unforgettable experience. The hotel offers a range of amenities including a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options Enjoy your stay and indulge in the ultimate luxury experience.
The hotel also boasts impressive meeting and event facilities, making it an ideal choice for business travelers. Swissotel the Bosphorus features several elegant meeting rooms and conference halls equipped with the latest technology and amenities. These versatile spaces can accommodate a variety of events, from intimate meetings to large conferences and banquets.
Address: Vişnezade, Acısu Sokaği No:19, 34357 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Türkiye
ORGANIZED BY
HOSTED BY
Event Management Office
REACT Event Management and Tourism Travel Agency Services Inc.
Tel: +90 212 358 36 37