International Aquariums

Congress · Wuhan 2027

After our 12th International Aquariums Congress in Guadalajara, Mexico, it is with great joy and anticipation that we now turn our eyes towards Asia, where the next IAC will take place in Wuhan, China, in 2027.

The last time our global community gathered in China was in Shanghai, in 2008. Much has changed since then. Over the past two decades, a remarkable number of aquariums have opened across the country, each bringing new expertise, creativity, and commitment to education, conservation, and public engagement. China has truly become one of the most dynamic regions in the aquarium world, and it is both fitting and exciting that Wuhan will host our next congress.

I would like to sincerely thank our colleagues in Wuhan and their partners for taking up this challenge and for their dedication in preparing what I am convinced will be a memorable event. I also extend my gratitude to the members of the International Aquarium Network steering committee, who work tirelessly throughout the year to keep our organization alive and strong, despite distances and time differences.

As always, the IAC is more than a professional conference. It is a unique opportunity to share our knowledge, our challenges, and our successes – in business, life support systems, husbandry, conservation, ocean issues, education and research. Above all, it is the time to celebrate the spirit of friendship and solidarity that unites our profession across continents.

I’m particularly pleased that for once, our host is focusing more on freshwater, demonstrating once again that the rivers are the roots of the oceans.  The theme of IAC 2027 “Connect the Ocean, building the future together” will be an invitation to move forward together, to innovate, and to continue implementing aquariums as living platforms for sustainability and ocean education. Let us seize this opportunity to demonstrate that aquariums are not only windows to the sea, but also powerful actors for a healthier Blue Planet. Looking beyond Wuhan, the following congress will bring us together in Abu Dhabi in 2030, in the Europe/Africa/Middle East region. Each IAC is a steppingstone, building bridges between regions and reinforcing our global commitment to the future of the ocean.

I wish you all a memorable 13th IAC in Wuhan, and I look forward to seeing how this gathering will once again strengthen our global community.