Industry News

By Stamatis Zisimou

Greece¡¯s powerful shipping industry was forged through hard work, boldness and entrepreneurial drive, by people who turned the sea into a source of national strength, Development Minister Takis Theodorikakos said in an address at a Maritime Club luncheon in Piraeus.

¡°It has become a global economic success story. A small country like Greece commands a formidable presence in shipping, holding the top position,¡± he noted.

The minister stressed that ¡°in a world of uncertainty and intense international competition, we must build an economy that, alongside fiscal credibility, delivers strong productivity and competitiveness ¡ª a resilient economy with solid foundations in industry, modern technologies, innovation, competitive products, high-quality services and a dynamic export orientation for goods and services.¡±

¡°In the future, Greece must produce more, export more, incorporate greater knowledge and technology, and generate higher value added in its output,¡± he said. ¡°Greek shipping is the spearhead of a modern, competitive economy, as its scale and global footprint far exceed the size of the country and its GDP.¡±

Theodorikakos underlined that Greece must have a productive and competitive economy. ¡°Greek shipping entrepreneurs are, above all, patriots ¡ª people who love their country and demonstrate it in practice, also delivering significant social contributions.¡±

Greece¡¯s ports

Referring to the sector¡¯s strength, he said Greece controls 5,691 vessels, representing around 20% of global tonnage. ¡°Maritime transport is essential to the prosperity of billions worldwide, as more than 80% of global trade by volume is carried by sea. Greek ships transport goods, fuels and energy resources, play a leading role in global supply chains and have a decisive impact on the functioning of the international economy.¡±

He added that Greece¡¯s ports, combined with its geostrategic position, give the country the potential to become an even stronger transport, logistics and energy hub ¡ª a strategic gateway for Europe and beyond. ¡°In 2024, Greek vessels called at ports in 180 countries. Through shipping, Greece is present everywhere, which is why it is such an important pillar.¡±

¡°At a time when international balances are shifting rapidly, and when energy, raw materials and supply chains are directly linked to security and stability, Greece has a major advantage ¡ª its shipping sector. It is a powerful instrument of security,¡± he said.