Greece Unveils Maritime Transport Modernization Plan for 2030

Greece’s Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Christos Stylianides, unveiled the government’s ambitious plan to enhance the country’s maritime transport system during the OT FORUM “A New Productive Model – ‘Greece 2030′” on November 2. The plan includes modernizing port infrastructure, renewing the ferry fleet, and bolstering the maritime cluster, with an estimated funding of up to 3 billion euros in the coming years. This long-term strategy aligns with Greece’s shift towards a “green” transition in ports and ferry operations, involving Greek maritime equipment manufacturers and shipyards.

Stylianides outlined the allocation of funds, with approximately 500 million euros designated for port infrastructure, another 500 million euros for environmentally friendly ferry vessels, and significant support for maritime equipment companies supplying new technologies for ships. The plan also involves Greece’s shipbuilding and repair sectors in constructing and converting new vessels, creating job opportunities in the industry. The European Commission’s approval for investment funds to co-finance these projects alongside subsidies from the EU Structural Funds is seen as a crucial factor in the plan’s success.

Part of the funding will go towards building modern vessels to serve “unprofitable routes,” particularly connecting remote islands in the Aegean to the mainland during non-tourist months. These vessels will operate under ten-year contracts with the Greek state, ensuring stable cash flows for potential bank financing. Additionally, the plan emphasizes streamlining management of unprofitable routes, enhancing maritime transport safety, and improving efficiency through the creation of time slots in the ferry network. Minister Stylianides reiterated a firm commitment to prioritizing safety in all aspects of the maritime transport system.

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