Maritime transport policy. Improving the competitiveness, safety and security of European shipping

Introductory brochure. Maritime transport is vital for Europe’s trade, both within the European Union and with our trading partners across the world. By their nature, ships can travel to any corner of the world, so maritime transport is the most global of industries. European citizens expect high standards of shipping, with operations run by well-trained, professional crews ensuring ships are safe, secure from terrorist attack, pollution-free and efficient. The EU therefore works to ensure the highest standards in shipping across the world, and has legislated to ensure ships operating in European waters consistently meet those high standards.