Insights into the maritime industry

"A thriving Dutch shipping industry depends on a dedicated maritime authority. The Netherlands is currently losing ground in the global fleet market. Restoring the prominence of a large, strong, and high-quality Dutch flag must become a priority, fostering maritime entrepreneurship."

In the summer of 2023, the 175 member states of the IMO reached a historic agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping. During the 80th meeting of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC), it was decided that "by or around" 2050, net zero greenhouse gas emissions must be achieved based on a 'well to wake' approach. With this, shipping has the first global climate deal targeting the phase-out of greenhouse gases.

The shipping lanes in the North Sea are the lifeblood of the Dutch economy. In the spatial (re)arrangement of the North Sea, the Dutch government must ensure that ships can continue to navigate these shipping lanes safely and smoothly.

Implement a global standard for wash water discharges from Exhaust Gas Cleaning Systems (EGCS).

Implement a practical approach to reducing nitrogen emissions in maritime shipping by ensuring reliable catalysts and promoting the development of shore power solutions.

Global regulations are needed to recycle ships in a way that is responsible for people and the environment. The KVNR calls for the Hong Kong International Convention to prevail over all other international regulations and for regional regulations on ship recycling to be reviewed and repealed.

The introduction of unwanted (waste) substances into fuel oil must be prevented through the implementation of additional qualitative frameworks, with a preference for globally recognized standards.

The modernization of the Minimum Wage and Minimum Holiday Allowance Act (WML) should provide clarity for both the industry and seafarers. Social partners need to resume discussions on this, with consideration for the international nature of seafaring.

The tonnage tax scheme and remittance reduction maritime shipping are essential for having a maritime sector in the Netherlands. The Netherlands must restore the global fiscal level playing field by including offshore ships.

To streamline maritime transport, seagoing vessels must be able to submit their port arrival notifications easily, in a uniform manner, and only once. Therefore, the KVNR advocates for the swift and effective implementation of the European Maritime Single Window (EMSWe).