Publication - Dutch Maritime Network (Netherlands)

European Maritime Clusters

"What determines the dynamic of maritime clusters and their long-term viability, and how may policy measures contribute to the strengthening of the clusters?" is the central question in this book. The theory of clusters is put into perspective on the basis of an in-depth understanding of the global shipping and shipbuilding sectors, as well as the insights derived from experiences and studies of two prominent maritime clusters in Europea, those of Norway and the Netherlands.

The driving forces behind the growth of global shipping in relation to world trade an the global economy are explained as these in turn form the triggers for growth in the shipbuilding, marine equipment, maritime services, ports, inland shipping and dredging sectors. Some countries have been able to maintain a strong position in the maritime markets for a long time, while other countries have lost out to new competitors, especially form the Far East. The changing fortunes of maritime nations over the last half century is analysed in the study and the empirical data supplements the more theoretical discussion of clusters.

European maritime clusters are important, not only for Europe, but also in the context of the global economy. The value creation and employment of the maritime clusters underscores the necessity to develop a comprehensive understanding of the clusters and its dynamics. The first step is to benchmark the performance of clusters and to understand the enablers of excellent performance. In this study the benchmark methodology is developed and adapted to the specific needs of the global maritime industry, taking into account the differences in structure in each country.

Enablers of excellent performance in the maritime clusters form the basic building blocks for the formulation of policies at the national and European level. The study defines seven maritime cluster enablers which are confronted with the current European policy framework. Suggestions are made to create a more integrated, holistic approach at the European level which should strengthen the vialibility of the maritime clusters, not only in Norway and the Netherlands, but in Europe as a whole.