A resilient waterborne ecosystem is key to EU Competitiveness

25 March 2025

The waterborne ecosystem is a dynamic, multifaceted industry comprising a diverse spectrum of public and private stakeholders, ranging from maritime and hinterland infrastructure managers and operators to product manufacturers and service providers. As a cornerstone of the European economy, the sector facilitates nearly 90% of the EU’s international trade, accounting for 81% of external trade and 40% of internal trade. It is also a key driver of employment and economic growth, providing 4.2 million direct jobs and contributing approximately €500 billion annually to the EU’s Gross Domestic Product.

This ecosystem is fundamental to reinforcing the EU’s resilience across trade, security, defence, energy supply, and sustainability. To maintain its global leadership, the sector continues to invest in innovation, green and digital transformation, and supply chain efficiency. However, achieving these ambitions necessitates a fully integrated transport and logistics ecosystem, encompassing maritime and land transport, terminals, and supporting logistics services.

The undersigning organisations call upon the EU to take enabling measures to strengthen competitiveness, sustainability and resilience in an ecosystem approach. The EU Industrial Maritime and Port Strategies should boost innovation, create a pro-innovation regulatory framework, ensure investment in multimodal connectivity, ease access to funding and finance and create attractive working conditions.