ECG — 2025-07-29
News from ECG
ECG has submitted a formal response to the European Commission’s consultation on a Maritime Industrial Strategy. In its response, ECG highlights the urgent need for a coordinated and future-focused approach that balances environmental ambition with economic sustainability for the shipping sector.
The finished vehicle logistics sector—particularly short sea shipping—is under growing pressure to decarbonise while contending with significant operational and financial constraints. ECG warns that without a comprehensive and supportive strategy, these dual challenges could undermine both the viability and competitiveness of the industry.
In its submission, three key priorities for the forthcoming strategy are outlined: scaling up alternative fuel production and infrastructure, ensuring that EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) revenues are used for shipping sector and aligning EU rules with international regulations.
Alternative Fuels: Urgent Investment Needed
One of the most urgent challenges facing the maritime sector—particularly Ro-Ro operators—is the need to scale up and commercialize alternative maritime fuels. The path to full decarbonization relies on the availability of scalable, commercially viable low- and zero-carbon fuels. However, current production levels and bunkering infrastructure remain insufficient, especially along high-frequency Ro-Ro corridors and in key ports. The EU must therefore accelerate investment in green fuel production and distribution, coupled with a mandatory production target to ensure future supply.
ETS Revenues Must Support Innovation
The inclusion of shipping in the ETS has significantly increased operating costs for short-sea operators. ECG is calling for a dedicated share of ETS revenue to be reinvested into shipping sector for innovation and support initiatives such as fleet renewal, energy efficiency retrofits and alternative fuel adoption.
Regulatory Alignment with IMO Essential
To avoid conflicting obligations, it is important that the EU decarbonisation measures are aligned with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) framework. Without harmonisation, operators could face unnecessary administrative and financial burdens, undermining both compliance and competitiveness.
Ports Must Be Ready for the Green Shift
Another priority should focus on the port infrastructure. Investments in shore power, refuelling capacity, and other enabling technologies will be essential to support the maritime sector’s transition.
The European Commission is currently collecting stakeholders input as it prepares to develop its Maritime Industrial Strategy at the end of 2025. This strategy aims to strengthen the resilience and sustainability of Europe’s shipping industry.