The European Boating Industry welcomed the launch of the European Union’s first Industrial Maritime Strategy, describing it as a milestone initiative aimed at strengthening the competitiveness and sustainability of Europe’s maritime industries, including the recreational boating sector. Introduced by the European Commission, the initiative highlights the importance of maritime manufacturing and recognizes Europe’s global leadership in such segments as recreational vessels, yachts, propulsion systems and marine equipment.
“We strongly welcome the EU Industrial Maritime Strategy and the recognition of Europe’s leadership in recreational craft and yachts, as well as across the entire ecosystem,” EBI secretary general Philip Easthill said in a statement. “Europe’s boating industry is a European success story, driven by innovation, high-quality manufacturing supported by thousands of SMEs, and jobs across the continent.”
EBI said the strategy places strong emphasis on innovation, clean technologies and alternative-fuel infrastructure in marinas, along with actions to strengthen supply chains and improve access to financing and investment. The initiative also supports work on a circular-economy roadmap for end-of-life boats and includes an evaluation of the Recreational Craft Directive to ensure the regulatory framework supports emerging propulsion technologies and other innovations.
The complete Industrial Maritime Strategy can be found here, with the EU Commission press release here. Click here for the roadmap on end-of-life boats.
