Dutch maritime clusters intensify cross-regional cooperation

The Netherlands is home to a number of strong regional maritime clusters that serve specific niche markets which are of strategic value to the national economy. Up to a certain extend these clusters face similar challenges. By sharing knowledge, lessons learned, and intensifying cross-regional cooperation the regions work jointly on facilitating recovery. Making sure the Netherlands is able to maintain its position as most complete and competitive maritime nation in the world.

During the meeting Alderman Barbara Kathmann of the municipality of Rotterdam elaborated on the network of Rotterdam Maritime Capital of Europe. Harry Doze, secretary of the Maritime Board Groningen touched upon best practices of the Groningen regional maritime cluster. Rob Verkerk, the Chairman of Nederland Maritiem Land, invited the participants to share regional challenges and to address opportunities to achieve synergy that might help maritime industry to emerge stronger out of the current crisis

Apart from participants from the clusters around Rotterdam and Groningen, Alderman Kees Visser (Den Helder), Alderman Maarten Burggraaf (Dordrecht), Alderman John de Jonge (Vlissingen) attended the meeting. Groningen was represented by senior policy adviser Geert Meijerink. All participants agreed that innovation is key to success. Consequently regional and national administrations should increase attention for and stimulate innovations in the area of clean shipping for example.