PORTUGAL's maritime sector is holding its first-ever Portugal Shipping Week, to establish itself as a major player in the international shipping industry.
Portugal Shipping Week will take place in Lisbon from September 17 to 21 and will feature a number of high-profile events which will allow Portugal to celebrate its maritime prowess, showcase its premier seafaring facilities and highlight the importance it places on its shipping sector and Blue Economy.
Said Portuguese Minister of the Sea Ana Paula Vitorino: 'During this week Portugal becomes the centre of discussion and networking for the international port industry and shipping community, inviting the maritime world to discover the massive potential that this country offers.'
A key focus of the Portuguese government is the strategic economic potential of its Blue Economy, which exceeded EUR5 billion (US$5.7 billion) in 2017.
To support development the Government has introduced a tonnage tax scheme to bring Portugal into line with the competitive conditions that exist in most European countries.
It has modernised its maritime administration systems and improved the efficiency of registration under the Madeira flag.
It has also accepted electronic statutory certification on board its vessels and developed digital port management system.
Portugal is currently awaiting the approval which will allow it to extend the limits of its continental shelf.
When approved, this will increase the Portuguese Maritime Area to 3,877,000 square kilometres - meaning Portugal will have the sixth largest Exclusive Economic Zone in Europe and the 20th in the world.
Portugal Shipping Week will comprise a week-long series of government and industry events - including top-level conferences and seminars, informative port and ship visits, vibrant round tables and valuable networking.
Portugal Shipping Week will take place in Lisbon from September 17 to 21 and will feature a number of high-profile events which will allow Portugal to celebrate its maritime prowess, showcase its premier seafaring facilities and highlight the importance it places on its shipping sector and Blue Economy.
Said Portuguese Minister of the Sea Ana Paula Vitorino: 'During this week Portugal becomes the centre of discussion and networking for the international port industry and shipping community, inviting the maritime world to discover the massive potential that this country offers.'
A key focus of the Portuguese government is the strategic economic potential of its Blue Economy, which exceeded EUR5 billion (US$5.7 billion) in 2017.
To support development the Government has introduced a tonnage tax scheme to bring Portugal into line with the competitive conditions that exist in most European countries.
It has modernised its maritime administration systems and improved the efficiency of registration under the Madeira flag.
It has also accepted electronic statutory certification on board its vessels and developed digital port management system.
Portugal is currently awaiting the approval which will allow it to extend the limits of its continental shelf.
When approved, this will increase the Portuguese Maritime Area to 3,877,000 square kilometres - meaning Portugal will have the sixth largest Exclusive Economic Zone in Europe and the 20th in the world.
Portugal Shipping Week will comprise a week-long series of government and industry events - including top-level conferences and seminars, informative port and ship visits, vibrant round tables and valuable networking.