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IHK Schleswig-Holstein
Maritime economy in Schleswig-Holstein: The future of the coast and the sea
Schleswig-Holstein is the state between the North Sea and the Baltic Sea – a geographical fact that shapes its landscape and economy. The maritime industry is one of the key sectors in Germany's northernmost state and is very diverse: from shipbuilding, marine technology and shipping to port logistics and the offshore industry, water sports, tourism and maritime research.
The maritime industry in Schleswig-Holstein accounts for thousands of jobs and high added value. The seaports in Kiel, Lübeck, Brunsbüttel and Büsum are particularly important, serving as logistical hubs between Scandinavia, the Baltic States and Central Europe. The Kiel Canal, the world's busiest artificial waterway, also contributes significantly to the region's international importance.
In addition, Schleswig-Holstein is home to shipbuilding companies, shipyards for specialised vessels and recreational boats, suppliers, marine technology companies and service providers for offshore wind energy and underwater technologies. It also has a strong research and higher education landscape with a focus on maritime technologies and sustainability.
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The three chambers of commerce and industry (IHK Flensburg, IHK zu Kiel and IHK zu Lübeck) work together under the umbrella of the IHK Schleswig-Holstein to make the maritime economy fit for the future. In position papers, dialogue events and expert committees, they bring the interests of companies into political processes and provide impetus for innovation, digitalisation and securing skilled workers, among other things.
A key issue is the energy transition at sea: the Chamber of Commerce and Industry is committed to improving conditions in the offshore sector, promoting the hydrogen economy in a maritime context and supporting sustainable shipping technologies. Maritime education and training is also supported through targeted initiatives to secure young talent for the industry.
An important partner of the Chamber of Industry and Commerce is the Maritime Cluster Northern Germany (MCN), a cross-state network that connects companies, research facilities and institutions in the maritime sector. The office in Kiel initiates projects to promote innovation, for example in the areas of digitalisation, sustainability, alternative propulsion systems and maritime safety. The aim is to better leverage the industry's innovation potential and strengthen its international position.
This also applies to sailing. It is not only a cultural flagship for Schleswig-Holstein, but also an important economic factor. Regattas such as Kieler Woche, major sailing events in Flensburg, Eckernförde and Heiligenhafen, and numerous marinas attract hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. This boosts the local economy in the restaurant, hotel, shipbuilding and retail sectors.
Boat building, especially of sailing yachts and recreational boats, is also a strong sub-sector of the maritime industry in Schleswig-Holstein. Companies in the state demonstrate the innovative strength of the industry. In addition, sailing is a multiplier for topics such as digitalisation (e.g. through smart navigation systems), new materials and environmentally friendly propulsion systems.
However, the maritime economy in Schleswig-Holstein also faces numerous challenges: decarbonisation, digitalisation and geopolitical changes in trade flows. At the same time, it offers enormous potential for innovation and sustainable growth. With strong networks such as the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the MCN, an excellent research landscape and a vibrant maritime culture, the state between the seas is well positioned to actively shape the maritime future.
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