Liner shipping keeps Europe’s economy moving.
As one of the world’s largest exporters, the European Union relies on shipping to maintain its economic strength and global influence.
€2.5 trillion each year
With EU trade carried by liner shipping worth €2.5 trillion each year, the movement of goods by sea is essential to Europe’s economy. In fact, 90% of goods by volume enter and leave the EU by sea.
65,000 port calls
Liner shipping makes more than 65,000 port calls to some 130 EU ports every year. These ships connect Europe to over 900 ports worldwide, reaching key markets and building important international relationships
1 in every 5 jobs within the EU
Exports directly support 1 in every 5 jobs within the EU, making the movement of goods crucial to the whole European economy. From factory workers assembling goods to logistics professionals managing supply chains, millions of livelihoods depend on reliable trade routes and shipping networks.
Keeping the EU competitive
Strong two-way trade keeps Europe competitive. While exports drive growth, imports provide vital supplies and components for European manufacturers and consumers. Strong shipping links give the EU competitive access to global markets and essential supplies.
Shipping plays a key role in the EU’s 2050 climate goals, being one of the most carbon-efficient transport modes. The industry is all-in with new green vessels, and the EU must invest in alternative fuels and infrastructure to power further decarbonisation of shipping.
While shipping drives EU trade, excessive administrative burdens at the border, including fragmented customs processes and complex regulations, only add cost and delays. Simplifying customs processes will boost efficiency, strengthen global competitiveness, and unlock even greater economic benefits for the EU.
WSC’s EU Policy Priorities
The shipping industry is a pillar of the EU economy. Liner shipping companies – container and vehicle carriers – transport roughly two-thirds of the value of the EU’s seaborne trade by value, equivalent to EUR 1.7 trillion of imports and exports. This represents over 100 million TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) of cargo annually, carried to Europe in high-capacity vessels. The industry's contributions are essential to the EU’s economic vitality, underpinning trade, supporting employment, and ensuring the smooth flow of goods across borders.
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The liner shipping industry recognises the critical role it plays in keeping the flow of goods through Europe’s maritime supply chains safe and secure. WSC invites EU policymakers to foster public-private partnerships, leveraging our combined expertise to bolster maritime supply chains for a safer, more resilient future.
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The shipping industry transport 90% of the EU’s external trade, playing a critical role for the EU’s economy, efficiently connecting manufacturers, retailers and consumers to global markets and suppliers. WSC seeks enhanced trade facilitation measures, leveraging our collective expertise to ensure Europe remains a competitive force in the global economy, supported by efficient and streamlined transport and trade practices.
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Liner shipping is leading the maritime sector effort to decarbonise through direct investment in vessels that can operate on near-zero and zero-GHG fuels. WSC calls on the EU to work for effective global greenhouse gas reductions, and to implement the Green Deal to ensure supply of green fuels.
Tackling challenges for the global supply chain
The toughest challenges facing the European Union today require a strong partnership with shipping—key to driving competitiveness, sustainability, and economic security.
The global supply chain is under increasing strain. Shifting geopolitics, economic rivalries, and disruptions to established trade routes threaten stability and growth. In an era of rising uncertainty, the EU must safeguard its trade networks to protect the European economy.
As a global shipping hub, the EU faces challenges from illicit activities like drug and wildlife trafficking. These threats disrupt trade and security. Joint operations between ocean carriers, customs, and law enforcement have proven effective. By enhancing international cooperation, using advanced monitoring technologies, and enforcing stricter security, the EU can better protect its trade and economic interests.
Media
Media queries
For EU media queries, please contact Jordan Gribble:
Jordan Gribble, Communications Manager
Tel +44 07783 071294
Email: jgribble@worldshipping.org