German Chancellor Friedrich Merz highlighted the maritime economy as a key driver of growth and innovation during the 14th National Maritime Conference in Emden on 29 April 2026. In his opening speech, Merz stressed that Germany has the conditions to become a leading maritime nation and that competitiveness and security are two sides of the same coin. He called for stronger support for shipbuilding, port modernisation, and better financing conditions, noting that the federal government has introduced measures such as a large‑guarantee programme for shipping and a climate‑and‑transformation fund. Merz also announced a joint EU initiative for a maritime industry strategy and urged quicker adoption of a uniform high‑sea tonnage tax. The conference, which marks 26 years of the NMK, will be followed by the next meeting in Duisburg in two years.
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