On the occasion of the 5th United Nations Ocean Forum, scheduled from 3–5 March 2025, in Geneva, Switzerland, UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and its partners bring together businesses, researchers, and innovators engaged in marine-based products, ocean conservation, and sustainable materials to participate in the Marine-based Products and Services (MAPS) Expo. 

Aligned with the 5th Ocean Forum's theme, "Ocean Economy, Trade Policy, Climate, and Development Nexus," MAPS Expo showcases pioneering alternatives to conventional plastics, circular economy innovations, sustainable fisheries initiatives, and nature-based solutions that contribute to marine conservation, sustainable ocean use, and coastal livelihoods. 

March 3rd, 1:10–1:30 p.m.
MARINE-BASED PRODUCTS AND SERVICES (MAPS) EXPO OPENING
Location: Palais de Nations, Building E, Exhibition Hall, 3rd floor.
Exposition inauguration hosted by UNCTAD Ocean and SMEP Programmes

Master of Ceremonies: Ms. Chantal Line Carpentier, Head, TEDB/DITC, UNCTAD
Opening remarks: Ms. Luz María de la Mora Sánchez, Director, Division of International
Trade and Commodities (DITC), UNCTAD
High level remarks:

H.E. Mr. Mxolisi Nkosi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary,
Permanent Mission of South Africa to the United Nations Office at
Geneva and other international organizations in Switzerland 

Mr. Aik Hoe Lim, Director of Trade and Environment Division, WTO

Exhibitors

Recognizing the pressing challenges facing the world's oceans, this UNCTAD initiative aims to balance urgency with optimism—highlighting real-world solutions that contribute to: 

• Mitigating plastic pollution through frontier materials and non-plastic substitutes (Catchgreen, GO!PHA, INBAR, Shellworks, Uluu, Zerocircle). 
• Strengthening food security and sustainable fisheries via innovative marine-based approaches (FAO GLOBEFISH, Fédération Nationale des Paniers de la Mer). 
• Advancing decarbonization and circular economy models in ocean industries (Busitema-TEXFAD, The Flipflopi Project Foundation, Mananasi Fibre Ltd.).
• Expanding the use of seaweed and marine-based materials for biodegradable packaging, textiles, and food innovation (International Seaweed Association, Quelp). 

With exhibitors from all five continents, the MAPS Expo provides a global platform for collaboration and industry growth. It enables exhibitors to showcase their solutions and expand networks, leveraging the 5th Ocean Forum's interdisciplinary audience that combines diplomatic, scientific, economic, and advocacy voices. All this is on the road to the United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice from 9 to 13 June 2025. 

By fostering awareness and partnerships, the MAPS Expo supports the ongoing shift towards ocean-safe, low-carbon products that redefine industries and consumer behavior. 

An Interactive and Engaging Space 
The MAPS Expo will transform the 3rd-floor Gallery of UNOG's E-building, Palais des Nations, Geneva, into a dynamic, interactive showcase. Situated at the crossroads leading to Ocean Forum meeting room XIX, the Expo will feature: 

• Product demonstrations from pioneering organizations. 
• Informational sessions by exhibitors on cutting-edge marine-based solutions. 
• Networking space to facilitate partnerships and knowledge exchange. 

How to Visit 
To visit the MAPS Expo and engage with exhibitors, participants must register for the 5th United Nations Ocean Forum via Indico. Once accredited, attendees will have full access to the E-building's Gallery, where the Expo will take place. 

REGISTER HERE

Join us at MAPS Expo to discover exciting innovations and meet exhibitors dedicated to transforming the Ocean Economy. Together, let's celebrate ocean-friendly solutions, pioneering materials, and sustainable development. Your participation matters! 

The MAPS Expo is funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office of the United Kingdom (FCDO-UK) and implemented by the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) Sustainable Manufacturing and Environmental Pollution (SMEP) Programme  and the Ocean Economy and Fisheries Programme.