Travlou: Greek shipping a leading force in international competition

Global shipping, in recent years, has been experiencing rapid and profound changes, resulting from the interaction of globalization, geopolitical developments and new technological and environmental requirements. At the heart of this dynamic development, Greek shipping maintains its leading position, overcoming every challenge and continuously strengthening its international influence said Melina Travlou, president-elect of the Union of Greek Shipowners (UGS), speaking at the general assembly of the shipowners' association, February 6.

Travlou emphasised "This year has been one of the most demanding and at the same time productive periods for our industry, proving our ability to adapt to new conditions and innovate with full respect for the traditional values of shipping."

The UGS president said: "In recent years, we have been experiencing rapid and fundamental changes. In this rapidly changing global environment, this year was a very demanding, I would say unprecedented, but at the same time productive year for our shipping.

"We withstood every challenge and responded effectively to every new situation, so our shipping industry has remained the leader. And, indeed, against the widespread, unequal, powerful competition, which spreads from East to West, in different forms; from state shipping to large multinational business groups."

Throwing in numbers, Travlou said "Greece with 0.1% of the world's population and 0.2% of global GDP, controls more than 20% of global shipping. We understand, therefore, the value, the gravity of responsibility, the admiration, but also the critical attitude towards the 'phenomenon' called Greek shipping. We are a global case study of excellence, resilience and leadership."