Application of a strong shipping policy is an important factor in motivating ship owners to do business in the Netherlands. This requires a decisive government to carry out effective policy making, implementation and enforcement.
A robust and attractive business location policy is required in order to stay competitive within Europe. The starting point is therefore a level playing field – not only regarding economic, financial and fiscal regulations, but also in terms of international laws and regulations.
The Maritime Work Programme 2018-2021, signed in February 2018, strives to strengthen cooperation within the maritime sector while setting a number of concrete priorities. These include a properly functioning shipping register, alternative financing options, a coherent climate policy, in addition to safety at sea and on board.
The appeal of the Dutch register is still barely visible to foreign ship owners, however. Steps must be taken to achieve growth.