Ministry Announces ‘Maritime Cluster’ to Support Greek Marine Equipment Businesses

Photo source: Shipping Ministry

The Greek Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, in collaboration with the Ministry of Economy and Finance, is set to establish a “Maritime Cluster” in Piraeus to support maritime equipment businesses.

The initiative will be funded by Greece’s National Strategic Reference Framework (ESPA), with an initial budget of 25 million euroas.

Minister of Maritime Affairs Christos Stylianides made the announcement during an event celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Hellenic Marine Equipment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (Hemexpo), held on Wednesday at the shipyards in Skaramangas in Piraeus.

“The cluster will provide financial support to Greek businesses in the maritime equipment industry, particularly to the member companies of Hemexpo,” Stylianides explained.

Shipping Minister Christos Stylianides. Photo source: Shipping Ministry

The minister also highlighted the significant role of Hemexpo in the broader Greek shipping sector and its contribution to the maritime equipment industry.

“Maritime equipment is the foundation of every vessel and maritime activity. Greek companies in Hemexpo provide comprehensive solutions to meet the global fleet’s needs,” he said.

Stylianides emphasized that Hemexpo is a key pillar of the maritime cluster, serving as a crucial link between Greek shipping representatives and the industry at large.

“Through its success, Hemexpo has demonstrated the power of collaboration and innovation, playing a vital role in the green transition and in elevating the international profile of Greek maritime equipment companies,” he added.

In addition, Stylianides stressed that strengthening shipbuilding and repair, particularly with a focus on the energy upgrade of the existing fleet and the construction of new green ships for Greek coastal shipping, remains a top priority for the Ministry.

He also pledged that the ministry will continue to work tirelessly, through negotiations with international partners and within European institutions, to improve Greece’s position and secure increased European funding for key sectors of the maritime industry.