Turnover up for Dutch maritime sector

The organisation said at its latest networking meeting that tonnage of seagoing vessels delivered in the Netherlands rose in 2014 ending a decline that started in 2007. And although orders for seagoing vessels at Dutch yards decreased overall last year, there were notable orders in the form of a number of series built short sea vessels.

Hans Voorneveld, chairman, Netherlands Maritime Technology, said: “Overall we see a nuanced picture with ups and downs. It is crucial to remain resourceful and to continue to innovate and export.”

He pointed out that the sudden mid-year fall in oil prices led to a decline in orders from the offshore oil and gas industry. But because the sector supplies a wide range of markets, this decline was offset by rises elsewhere, especially for offshore windfarm vessels, patrol boats and other specialised vessels.

The construction for inland shipping and small going seagoing trade below 100gt remains a huge industry in the Netherlands with 108 vessels worth more than €600m being delivered in 2014.

The country’s maritime supply industry also had a good year in general with a significant increase in sales of more than 10%. Many companies took on extra staff and were working to full capacity. Growth came mainly from export and the activities of foreign subsidiaries.

In addition the repair, conversion and maintenance market amounted to €558m in 2014, up from €515 in 2013.

By Anne-Marie Causer