Maritime Manufacturing Industry
The voice of the maritime civil manufacturing industry in Europe
A strategic industry for Europe
Shipbuilding and Ship Repair
European shipyards focus primarily on constructing complex, high-end vessels such as cruise ships, ferries, naval and coast guard ships, offshore service vessels, research ships, workboats and other specialised vessels, and luxury yachts. Routine and specialised maintenance, repair, retrofitting, and modernisation activities are also significant, supporting the lifecycle management of the European and global fleet.
Maritime Equipment Manufacturing
Europe leads in the design and production of advanced maritime equipment, including propulsion systems, automation and control technologies, safety and environmental protection devices, and digital solutions for smart shipping and sustainability.
Innovation and R&D
The maritime manufacturing industry invests heavily in research and development, particularly in areas such as decarbonization, alternative fuels (like LNG, hydrogen, and methanol), energy efficiency, and digitalization (e.g., autonomous navigation and remote diagnostics).
Economic Value Added and Strategic Dimension
The EU has recognized its maritime manufacturing industry as a strategic industry and a major contributor to Europe’s industrial value added. Its high productivity rates, export intensity, and ability to drive innovation place it at the heart of the continent’s transition to a greener, more digitalised economy. The sector is also a linchpin for numerous other strategic sectors, such as energy (including offshore wind and marine renewables), defence and security, tourism, and trade logistics.