The meeting brought together representatives of national boating associations and industry organisations from across Europe to discuss the future development of the recreational boating sector and define common priorities for the years ahead.

Among the key topics discussed during the Assembly were the growing shortage of skilled professionals across the marine industry, the need for stronger cooperation between European boating organisations, and the importance of creating a more consistent regulatory framework to support competitiveness, innovation and sustainable growth throughout Europe.
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Particular attention was also given to the launch of a European initiative to develop comprehensive demographic research on recreational boat users. The project aims to provide reliable market intelligence that will support both policymakers and the industry's long-term development. In parallel, EBI announced preparations for a European-funded vocational training programme focused on the skills required for the transition towards alternative propulsion systems, hybrid and electric technologies, digital onboard systems and modern maintenance practices. These initiatives present new opportunities for cooperation between industry associations, companies and vocational education institutions across Europe.

During the General Assembly, EBI also welcomed Green Sail from Croatia as a new Sustaining Member, increasing the organisation's membership to 35 organisations from 24 European countries and further strengthening its role as the leading voice of the European recreational boating industry.
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Kaloyan Radulov, President of BABI, commented:

"As one of Europe's newest members, BABI is committed not only to representing Bulgaria within the European boating community, but also to bringing European initiatives and best practices back to our country. The discussions in Istanbul clearly demonstrated that many of the challenges we face are shared across Europe - from workforce development to regulatory harmonisation and technological transition. This creates an excellent opportunity for Bulgaria to become an active contributor to the future of the European boating industry."

BABI will continue to work closely with European Boating Industry and its member organisations to strengthen Bulgaria's boating sector, promote knowledge exchange and support initiatives that contribute to the long-term development of the industry.

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