Concerned about Germany as a maritime location

There are increasing calls from the two important pillars of the German maritime industry, shipbuilding and shipping, for more support from politicians. IG Metall Küste, for example, expects the federal government to ensure that the announced orders for research and naval vessels create work at the shipyards as quickly as possible and that the procurement offices do not get lost in the procurement jungle. The 32nd shipbuilding survey carried out by IG Metall Küste among the works councils of 42 German shipyards revealed that the number of employees at the shipyards had reached its lowest level to date at 14,027 - a decline of almost 16 per cent compared to the previous year. Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania was particularly affected, where the number of employees had halved within a year due to the insolvency of MV Werften. The number of employees in Hamburg also fell by 25 per cent.

This downward spiral must be stopped as quickly as possible, otherwise the basis of a functioning value chain will be lost in this country. "We need shipyards and suppliers that secure economic independence by building cargo ships and make an important contribution to energy supply and security by building specialised ships."

At an event with guests from the world of politics, Gaby Bornheim, President of the German Shipowners' Association (VDR), reminded the audience that Germany is still one of the most important shipping nations in the world with over 1900 ships. In view of climate change, supply bottlenecks, the coronavirus pandemic and the war in Ukraine, politicians and businesses are challenged to do the right thing now. After all, it has now become clear to everyone what supply bottlenecks mean. "At its core, this is about our maritime sovereignty in the face of the crises and challenges of our time. It is about Germany being a strong and competitive shipping centre. It's about our maritime and economic independence!"