Norwegian Fleet Larger than Ever

The Norwegian-owned and -controlled foreign-going fleet numbered 1,730 vessels at the end of 2000, an increase of 70 units compared to one year earlier. Looking back on the past year, Norway consolidated her position as the world's third largest shipping nation, and the shipping industry's contribution to the Norwegian economy reached an historic high level. Shipping is now Norway's largest exporter of services, and the second largest export industry as a whole, after oil and gas. The industry on its own, covered more than half the country's exports of services, and the fleet contributed with NOK 70.8 billion in freight earnings, or more than 10 per cent of gross Norwegian foreign exchange revenues.

The future, too, looks promising. Norwegian ship-owners have placed newbuilding contracts for a total of 120 vessels and six mobile offshore constructions, with a total value of NOK 50.2 billion. This amount equals total Norwegian investments on the Norwegian continental shelf in 2000. Of the 126 newbuilding contracts, 39 will be built in Norway, 28 in Japan and 22 in South-Korea.

The challenge now is to keep pace with the rest of the world, not least Europe. All shipping nations of substance try to provide conditions, which will attract further maritime activities. That is a challenge for the industry - and for the authorities, states Mr. Løddesøl, the President of the Norwegian Shipowners' Association, and continues: “To safeguard that Norwegian shipping and maritime offshore activities may thrive in Norway, and when conducted from Norway, is a vital contribution to the creation of future added value. There are many that envy Norway her present position. Norwegian companies must make their contributions by striving to maintain their position among the world leaders when it comes to quality, regards for the environment and the safety of men, cargoes and vessels. The authorities on their part must closely follow all developments worldwide and ensure that operating conditions in Norway allow the industry to develop further”.