The future of the Norwegian maritime cluster
By Minister of Trade and Industry, Mr. Trond Giske
2009 has been a challenging year for the maritime sector. Freight rates have fallen in most market segments – dramatically in some. We have seen numerous new building contracts being cancelled and very few new contracts have been signed. While the situation in many other business segments is slowly improving, the situation in the maritime sector is still difficult. Many analysts believe that the worst lie ahead for parts of the maritime industry.
In these circumstances, strong actions by policy makers seem particularly important. However, such actions must be directed towards promoting innovative and viable businesses and allow for restructuring of the global industry which is likely to follow. It is also extremely important that governments resist protectionist measures which could threaten free trade and damage the world economy.
Record offshore newbuildings is overshadowed by uncertain times ahead
The good news is that the activity at Norwegian shipyards continued at a very high level throughout 2009 despite the extra strain that the financial crisis caused, and the impact from the downward market trends, including for the offshore market. As a consequence some delays arose, which however caused very few cancellations. So compared to other market sectors, like bulk carriers and tankers, the Norwegian yards were in a fortunate position.
Designing – not building: Wärtsila Ship Design Norway is to design and supervise the construction of a modern oceanographic research vessel for the marine wing of the Geological Survey of India. (GSI)
What next for Norwegian Shipbuilding Industry?
Will offshore wind farms offer a new market?
The bleak prospects for the future of Norwegian shipbuilding industry, with almost empty order books after 2012, have raised the question of how the industry can pursue new opportunities and identify possible new markets. Or would it be more relevant to strengthen the belief in the reviving of old markets, like coastal fishing vessels, ferries, short sea vessels and offshore vessels.
Eigthy-eight huge wind turbins are to be installed on Sheringham Shoal, UK / Photo:Statoil
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