The Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC) welcomed the publication of the European Industrial Maritime Strategy and the EU Ports Strategy by the European Commission, stating that the initiatives underline the maritime sector’s key role in strengthening Europe’s energy security and safeguarding supply chains.

The strategies aim to reinforce the competitiveness, sustainability and resilience of Europe’s maritime sector, focusing on shipping, ports and shipbuilding as key pillars of the bloc’s economy.

In a statement, the chamber said the strategies place emphasis on investments in clean fuels, digitalisation and decarbonisation technologies, as Europe seeks to modernise the maritime sector and support its transition towards more sustainable operations.

At the same time, the EU Ports Strategy aims to enhance the sustainability and competitiveness of European ports, while expanding their broader social role with a focus on safety, security and more efficient digital operations, as well as stronger and more integrated supply chains.

The strategies also promote the green transition across the maritime value chain, linking ports, shipping companies and shipyards, while encouraging the development of innovative technologies and sustainable practices.

According to the chamber, European shipping controls approximately 35 per cent of the global fleet, emphasisng the sector’s central role in international trade.

The initiatives also highlight the importance of international regulatory harmonisation, seen as essential for advancing the global shipping industry’s decarbonisation efforts.

Commenting on the development, chamber’s director general, Alexandros Iosifidis welcomed the emphasis placed on investments in clean fuels, decarbonisation technologies and innovation, noting that such initiatives are crucial for the sector’s future.

“These investments are vital to maintaining the competitiveness and resilience of European Shipping,” he said, adding that they also strengthen the sector’s path towards the green transition.

The chamber added that “Cyprus, which has one of the largest merchant fleets in the European Union and the largest ship management centre in Europe, supports initiatives that strengthen Europe’s leading position in global shipping while promoting sustainability across the sector.”