Shipping conferences are cooperative agreements among shipping lines that operate on specific trade routes. These conferences allow member companies to coordinate their services, set freight rates, and manage capacity to ensure stability in the shipping market. By working together, they can reduce competition and provide more predictable pricing for customers. These conferences can also help improve efficiency in the shipping industry by sharing resources and information. However, they may face scrutiny from regulatory bodies, as their practices can limit competition and potentially lead to higher prices for consumers. Overall, shipping conferences play a significant role in the global shipping landscape.