In a press release, the ECSA stated that the report, titled “The future of European competitiveness – A competitiveness strategy for Europe”, acknowledges the global leadership of European shipping and identifies that a fit-for-purpose regulatory and taxation framework has ensured that the sector has remained globally competitive.
The ECSA also praised the report for recognising that shipping, together with aviation, are the most difficult sectors to decarbonise. The report finds that investment needs for shipping alone will be around 40 billion each year from 2031 to 2050.
Moreover, the report concludes that scaling up the production of clean fuels and clean and innovative technologies in Europe is set as a major objective. In this regard, the report identifies the need for adequate access to finance, including special calls for shipping under the ETS Innovation Fund.
“The Draghi report firmly recognises the global leadership role of European shipping and the need to maintain its international competitiveness. European shipping is a success story and a cornerstone of the energy, food and supply chain security of our continent. In these times of geopolitical uncertainty, it is crucial for Europe to maintain and grow the EU-operated fleet, which ensures Europe’s position in the global supply chains as well as access to key international markets” said Sotiris Raptis, Secretary General of ECSA, commenting on the report.
Raptis added:
“An internationally competitive shipping sector is also a prerequisite for a thriving European maritime industrial cluster, which must be part of the upcoming EU Clean Industrial Deal. It is crucial to focus investments into European industrial capacity for clean fuels and innovative technologies for shipping, to deliver on our climate objectives and to enhance European competitiveness and security” he added.
Upskilling and reskilling needs for the green and digital transition are also highlighted, says the ECSA. The report estimates that up to 250,000 seafarers in the EU could be affected in the coming years, with the figure going up to 800.000 seafarers globally that will have to be reskilled in the next decade.
“European shipowners look forward to working with the new MEPs and the incoming Commission to implement the report’s recommendations and ensure that European shipping remains internationally competitive and a leader in the global supply chains,” writes the ECSA.
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