The European Commission plans to propose measures to ensure more goods and services for the European Union's shipping industry are made in the EU. This is part of a broader strategy to increase competitiveness.
The plan, dubbed 'Made in EU', aims to boost local shipbuilding by encouraging public authorities to select suppliers based on non-price factors like sustainability and whether the item is made in EU. The draft document states that this could lead to increased EU production of ferries, research vessels, tugs, icebreakers, and tugboats.
The European Investment Bank (EIB) will play a key role in encouraging demand for EU-manufactured ships by providing ship owners easier access to finance. The EU executive will present a series of proposals to improve the shipbuilding and shipping sectors, as well as security and sustainability in its ports.
This plan has divided EU countries, but it is seen as an opportunity to promote local industries and reduce dependence on foreign goods. By supporting EU-manufactured ships, the Commission hopes to increase competitiveness and promote sustainable growth.
The 'Made in EU' plan will be presented next week, a week before the EU executive makes a wider push for local products.
This plan is a step in the right direction towards promoting local industries and reducing dependence on foreign goods. By encouraging public authorities to prioritize EU-manufactured ships, the Commission can help increase competitiveness and promote sustainable growth.
