On July 28th, many FEPORT members, both companies and national associations, submitted their feedback to the open call for feedback on the EU Ports Strategy, demonstrating a strong interest from the sector. The Commission received feedback from the following FEPORT company members: CMA CGM, PSA, DP World, EUROGATE and HHLA. In addition, the following associations replied: AOPPDL (Portugal), Association of Lithuanian Stevedoring Companies, Deltalinqs (Netherlands) and VOKA Alfaport (Belgium) together with UVHH from Hamburg, VRTO and VRMO (Rotterdam, Netherlands), Danish Shipbrokers and Port Operators’ Association and ZDS (Germany).
Themes that were addressed in many of the contributions, in line with FEPORT reply, included the need to support the greening and modernisation of terminal and port operations as well as making ports ready for their increasing dual-use function. In addition, many respondents pointed to the need to promote intramodality by enhancing the connection of ports to rivers and railways. Furthermore, FEPORT members addressed the important role of FDI and the need to promote FTAs and international partnerships in times of growing trade tensions. To address security challenges, respondents pointed to the need of tackling drug trafficking and organised crime through an approach which is risk-based and involves the entire supply chain.
Respondents also included specific asks in their contribution such as ZDS which included recommendations regarding the Water Framework Directive, calling for an additional management period beyond 2027 to avoid legal uncertainty. HHLA put emphasis on the role of hydrogen as a key technology for port logistics and mobility, whereas the Danish Shipbrokers and Port operators Association highlighted the need of maintaining enough space for port areas considering the key role ports play in terms of security of supply, military mobility and the energy transition.
The different replies to the call for feedback on the EU Ports Strategy can be accessed here.
