Danish merchant fleet the fifth largest in the world
Only 18 months ago, Denmark overtook Germany and moved to sixth place on the list of the world's largest merchant fleets, measured on ships operated by Danish shipping companies. But now, the Danish merchant fleet is taking a further step up the list and replaces the US merchant fleet as the fifth largest in the world.
Last year, Danish shipping companies exported for DKK 188 billion and shipping is thus one of Denmark's largest export industries. Reaching the fifth place on the list of the world's largest operated merchant fleets shows, according to CEO of Danish Shipping, Anne H. Steffensen, that the recent years' course for Danish shipping has been successful.
“I am very pleased that Denmark's merchant fleet is now the fifth largest in the world, measured on the vessels operated by Danish shipping companies. We have seen an important increase in the number of ships operated by Danish shipping companies, and at the same time there are more ships flying the Danish flag than ever before,” says Anne H. Steffensen, who does however warn against resting on these laurels. She continues:
“The next 5-10 years are crucial to finding the way to CO2-neutral ships, which will be a prerequisite for continued growth in shipping. The knowledge required must come through investment from the industry, targeted research, education and innovative start-ups, which can maintain and develop the Danish merchant fleet's position as the fifth largest in the world.”
Denmark in green jersey
Minister for Industry, Business and Financial Affairs, Simon Kollerup agrees that a continuous strong focus on research and innovation in shipping is crucial, not least in terms of sustainability:
“Denmark is a small country, but there are not many other countries that can measure up to us when it comes to shipping. This is, of course, because we are a nation with long proud maritime traditions, but also because Denmark in recent times is among the leading countries when it comes to ensuring a green transition of shipping,” says Minister for Industry, Business and Financial Affairs, Simon Kollerup and continues:
“As a green Minister for Industry, Business and Financial Affairs I am particularly pleased to see that the industry has set a sustainable course with concrete initiatives and visionary ambitions for how we can strengthen the green transition. The Government is 100 per cent behind this approach which must be supported by an active and green business policy, where sustainability and competitiveness go hand in hand. "
In the UN's maritime organization, the IMO, the world's countries have agreed on an objective that greenhouse gas emissions from shipping in 2050 must be reduced by at least 50 per cent compared to the level in 2008. MÆRSK goes even further and has set a goal of being completely CO2 neutral in 2050.
Source: IHS Seaweb.
Data include merchant vessels (including passenger ships), offshore vessels and various ships, including tugboats. Warships, fishing vessels and other non-merchant ships, including vessels and constructions that cannot sail themselves, are not included.
