The Norwegian government has presented a new proactive maritime strategy, acknowledging the government-appointed work group’s advice on a revised net wage scheme, and relaxing of cabotage rules in NIS governing foreign short sea shipping, foreign-going ferries, and the Norwegian Continental Shelf, Norwegian Shipowners’ Association reports.
The new service contains a series of measures within education and competency, measures that will contribute to positive developments in green shipping, a more service-oriented maritime authority, as well as maintaining the country’s leading position in development of the High North, according to Norwegian Shipowners’ Association.
”Relaxing cabotage rules will open the door to more ships under the Norwegian flag. This will contribute to strengthening Norway’s position and influence internationally,” Sturla Henriksen, CEO of the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association , said.
The new strategy is expected to bolster the Norwegian flag registers and strengthen the competitive advantage of Norwegian seafarers and maritime companies operating in international competition.
”The strategy takes a broad approach and forms a solid foundation which should allow Norway to maintain our leading position, even in challenging times,” said Henriksen.
”In these times when markets are particularly challenging, stable and competitive maritime policies are more important than ever. The new strategy encourages adaptability and innovation that will allow the industry to take advantage of future maritime opportunities.”
Norway is one of the world’s leading maritime nations, and value creation in the Norwegian maritime industry has doubled over the past ten years. More than 110,000 employees now create value for NOK 175 billion (USD 22.4 billion) each year in Norway, and for the first time, Norwegian shipowners have created more than NOK 100 million in annual value.
In many coastal communities maritime companies represent more than half of value creation and jobs.