In a time of geopolitical upheaval, growing security demands, and the globalisation of the economy, the maritime industry is a key driver for economic strength, reliable supply chains, and resilience. Its strategic importance rightly lies at the heart of the EU’s Industrial Maritime Strategy and the Federal Government’s Action Plan, adopted at the National Maritime Conference in Emden in April 2026. Around the world, there is a clear trend towards increased private and public-sector investment in the sector, since maritime sovereignty is a key requirement for prosperity and security.
At the same time, the maritime industry is undergoing a profound technological transformation, with future investments increasingly directed towards climate-neutral propulsion systems, digitalisation, artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and cyber and maritime security technologies. Leadership on these key-enabling technologies is essential for ensuring industrial value creation, high-skilled employment, technological sovereignty and reliable supply chains in times of crisis.
Germany’s supplier industry has established itself as a key player on the global market. Despite global challenges, industry forecasts have consistently shown positive growth figures for many years, with revenue growing by 5 % in 2025. 2026 is expected to bring further substantial growth, driven by strong demand both at home and abroad. This demand is likely to be further strengthened by the reform of the EU Emissions Trading System, which will extend its scope to additional vessel classes. A similar effect is expected from the Net-Zero Framework planned by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), should it be adopted at the end of the year. With the construction of the first 2 GW offshore converter platform in Rostock, the German maritime industry is entering a new market segment that will drive further growth. The project will also benefit suppliers, where it is expected to create up to 500 new jobs.
The establishment of green shipping corridors will create lead markets for climate-neutral and energy-efficient technologies. Joint standards and certifications have the potential to enhance the competitiveness of all stakeholders involved. The Federal Government will expand green corridors in both inland and maritime shipping, by providing targeted financial incentives and adopting measures that drive innovation.
To ensure continued growth, consistent investment in innovation and competitiveness is needed. Alongside a reliable policy environment, maintaining Germany’s excellent maritime research network is key. The Federal Government will make use of its Maritime Research Programme and the Innovative Shipbuilding funding programme to continue to provide targeted support for the industry. In addition to this, it will take on an active role in the EU Industrial Maritime Value Chains Alliance, which the EU has announced it will create.
Ensuring a skilled workforce must also remain a core priority. Demographic change will not spare the maritime industry. The only way to avoid a skills gap is for companies to offer attractive initial and further training opportunities and be able to recruit skilled staff from abroad. This will also boost company’s resilience and innovative potential.
Our goal is clear: we want Germany to remain a leading industrial and maritime hub. To achieve this, we will continue to engage in constructive dialogue with the maritime supplier industry. Only by working together can we strengthen the competitiveness of Germany’s maritime industry, transition to low-carbon shipping, and ensure resilient and secure supply chains.
