The FEPORT Contribution to the Call for Evidence on the EU Port Strategy presents a comprehensive policy position from FEPORT, outlining the priorities and recommendations for a future-proof EU Ports Strategy. The paper underscores the essential role of European ports as critical enablers of trade, economic growth, and resilience, stressing the need for a coherent and stable regulatory and investment environment. FEPORT argues that the competitiveness of the EU port sector depends on ensuring a level playing field, strengthening financial instruments, improving access to State aid, and facilitating foreign direct investment under transparent and non-discriminatory rules.
A central recommendation is the creation of a dedicated EU State Aid Framework for Ports, combining a block exemption and specific guidelines to support investments in digitalisation, decarbonisation, and dual-use infrastructure. The paper further calls for enhanced access to financing, simplified administrative procedures, and harmonised FDI screening to stimulate public–private investment while safeguarding strategic autonomy. FEPORT also stresses the importance of strengthening connectivity, resilience, and security — including combating drug trafficking through a structured public–private partnership and improving cybersecurity via coordinated EU mechanisms such as an early-warning system managed by ENISA.
Finally, the position paper highlights the dual civilian and military role of ports, advocating for adapted concession models, de-risked private capital, and streamlined permitting for dual-use projects. FEPORT also emphasises the pivotal role of ports in the green transition, urging clear allocation of responsibilities for onshore power supply and alternative fuels infrastructure, alongside fiscal incentives and anti-evasion measures to prevent cargo diversion to non-EU ports. The paper concludes with a call for an ambitious, coherent, and forward-looking EU Ports Strategy that integrates competitiveness, sustainability, digitalisation, and security as mutually reinforcing pillars of Europe’s maritime and economic resilience.
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