The Dutch maritime manufacturing industry (shipyards, repair yards and suppliers) has had an eventful year, reports industry body NMT in a press release. For instance, fewer inland and seagoing vessels were delivered to the yards in 2022.
The inland shipping sector had a tough time: 70 ships were delivered in 2021, compared to 40 in 2022, although the order book was filled with 84 cargo-carrying ships (70 in 2021). Passenger ships and ferries also saw growing demand, especially in the ‘sustainable propulsion’ category. The ‘repair’ category showed good occupancy figures, according to the industry’s 2022 annual report.
Superyacht construction
The fishing industry also faced challenges, including high gas oil prices and offshore wind farms where sailing is no longer allowed. 80 vessels have now been registered for the clean-up scheme set up by the government.
In the commercial vessel sector (work boats, tugs and pushers, patrol boats and small dredging equipment), things did not fare much better. With 18 ships delivered and 11 new orders in 2022, that niche can be called very thin. Dutch superyacht builders maintain their top position in the global market. In 2022, 25 new orders were placed, bringing the total order book to 69 yachts with a total value of EUR 6.6 billion.
Sea vessels
The marine newbuilding sector had a mixed year, with a lower value of completed vessels. In 2022, 31 ocean-going vessels were delivered (value: €300 million, significantly lower than 2021). In contrast, order intake increased by almost 50%: 49 orders (value: €600 million). The shortsea sector (coastal shipping) continues to perform well, with an increase in order intake and a filled order book: 62 vessels. This highlights the growing need for efficient and sustainable short-sea transport within Europe, NMT said.
Suppliers
Maritime suppliers face rising energy and procurement prices, European sanctions against Russia, project delays due to supply problems and a shortage of available labour. Total turnover in those niches rose 10.9% to €4.2 billion in 2022 (€3.8 billion in 2021). Of this, about 57% is generated by exports. The number of own employees rose from 17,812 in 2021 to 18,577 in 2022. The number of hired workers increased by more than 500 people to 2,532.
Repair
For the ‘repair & conversion’ sector, 2022 was positive. Total turnover was €425 million (2021: €343 million), up almost 25%. The number of large projects increased for the first time in years due to projects for the navy, conversion projects and projects in the cruise and yachting markets.
The Netherlands has become increasingly dependent on China as a workshop and sales market, with China, South Korea and Japan being very formidable competitors. In 20 years, more than half of Europe’s market share of commercial marine vessels has left Europe for China.
