The critical role of seafarers and the unique aspects of their profession gained prominence during the pandemic, as the industry advocated for their recognition as key workers.

Shipping is a purely extroverted international activity and Greek shipping is one of the main productive pillars of the Greek economy, with its direct and indirect contribution ranging between 6.5% and 8% of GDP.

Enhancing the competitiveness and extroversion of shipping companies is achieved through investments in technologies and service upgrades. As a Piraeus entrepreneur, operating next to one of the largest ports in the Mediterranean and the EU, I am proud because, in this port, beats the heart of Greek shipping. 
Seizing the opportunity, I will keep reminding the necessity to invest through the maritime cluster of HCS, UGS, and PCCI. “Maritime Hellas,” which some mistakenly think as just a “business directory,” will surprise with its digital upgrade. 
Maritime innovation is a capital and knowledge-intensive field, where we must make every possible effort to improve the knowledge level of the workforce active across the entire spectrum of maritime activities on land and sea. According to the Naval Chamber and the Union of Greek Shipowners, the key to the “blue transition” is the collaboration of shipping with shipyards, fuel suppliers, engine manufacturers, suppliers of maritime equipment and consumables. 
As explained by the president of the UGS, Ms. Melina Travlou, “Everyone must
go hand in hand with us.” It is perhaps the “golden opportunity”, now that the country’s shipbuilding industry has awakened, to “accelerate” actions through this cluster so that we all win, and the economy wins, from the “hidden” added values. The new year starts a new chapter with a new vision, a new unifying spir- it, new initiatives, and a new strategy aligned with the country’s needs. 
It should be noted that the licenses for Shipbuilding and Repair Works issued through the Ministry of Shipping’s electronic platform “e-ΔΛΑ” throughout Greece amounted to 32,000 in 2024, while in 2023, 24.000 licenses were issued. These licenses concern repair, maintenance, conversions and new shipbuilding works. For 2024, 40% of these licenses took place in Perama, 21% in Elefsis Shipyards, and 12% in Keratsini. 
At the recent meeting, at PCCI, with the Deputy Director General of the Cruise Lines International Association, Julie Green, the economic footprint of the cruise industry was the main topic of discussion. The supply of cruise ships at the port of Piraeus and other Greek ports where cruise ships dock, as well as the range of shipbuilding and repair works developed by numerous companies offering services in the shipbuilding repair zone and the two major shipbuilding units of Elefsis Bay. Thus, it is confirmed that “in unity there is strength” and that the Greek maritime cluster is the expression of this unification of productive forces. The triptych of Shipping, Investments, and Exports can certainly give an additional boost to extroversion and the development of the Greek economy. With these thoughts, 
I wish for the new year calm seas for our sailors, safe journeys for the world’s leading Greek-owned ocean-going shipping and an increase in passengers and vehicles in our significant coastal shipping. 
*President of Piraeus Chamber of Commerce and Industry 

In an age when climate change is one of humanity’s most pressing challenges, the maritime industry stands at a critical crossroad.