.png?width=1200&height=630&rmode=max&scale=both&w=860&resize=860,0&ssl=1 "EU must back shipbuilding revival with bold industrial strategy")
At a meeting in Monfalcone, trade unions from across Europe welcomed signs of revival in European shipbuilding, driven by diversification and a surge in naval orders. They also warned against Asia’s continued dominance and called for a strong Maritime Industrial Strategy that puts workers, skills, and sovereignty at its core.
On 23 – 24 October, trade unions from across Europe gathered in Monfalcone, Italy, for the latest meeting of industriAll Europe’s Shipbuilding Network. Representatives from Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, France, Norway, Poland, and Finland met to discuss recent developments in the sector and the need to reinforce Europe’s strategic shipbuilding capacity.
The meeting was hosted by the Italian shipbuilding company Fincantieri, who also provided a tour of their shipyard, in cooperation with industriAll Europe’s Italian member organisations FIOM CGIL, FIM CISL and UILM.
Participants noted that the European shipbuilding industry is showing encouraging signs of revival and diversification. Companies across Europe are securing new contracts, particularly in naval shipbuilding, signalling renewed confidence and opportunities for growth.
“We are witnessing clear evidence of a revival in Europe’s shipbuilding industry,” said Isabelle Barthès, Deputy General Secretary of industriAll Europe. “This is reassuring given the strategic importance of the sector for Europe’s sovereignty and the vital role it can and must play in Europe’s industrial and green future.”
Asia’s dominance underscores the need for a stronger European strategy
Despite the positive developments, trade unions voiced serious concern about the continuing dominance of Asian competitors, who still capture the majority of new global ship orders. This imbalance highlights the urgent need for Europe to strengthen its industrial base and protect strategic know-how and capabilities.
Unions reiterated their call for an ambitious European Maritime Industrial Strategy that places workers at its heart. They demand strong social conditionalities, local content requirements, and major investment in upskilling and reskilling, to ensure that the green and digital transitions deliver quality jobs and secure Europe’s industrial future.
Linking civil and naval shipbuilding for innovation and quality jobs
During the meeting, representatives of the European Commission (DG Trade) presented the latest developments in trade and transatlantic relations. Unions expressed concern about ongoing tensions with the United States and potential repercussions for European shipyards, urging policymakers to pursue fair and balanced trade relations that safeguard European interests.
Participants also underlined the importance of greater synergy between civil and naval shipbuilding, noting that new investments in naval programmes can drive technological innovation, generate industrial spillovers, and sustain high-quality employment across Europe.
“Europe’s shipbuilding sector has proven its resilience and capacity for innovation,” added Isabelle Barthès. “Now, European policymakers must match this commitment with a bold industrial strategy that keeps jobs, skills, and technological excellence in Europe.”