The Union of Greek Shipowners has published its Annual Report for 2025–2026, which presents up-to-date statistics on the Greek-owned fleet and its decisive contribution to the global, European, and national economies.
The Report highlights the irreplaceable and strategic role of shipping as a fundamental pillar of international trade, energy and food security, as well as the stability of global supply chains, the relevant announcement notes.
In addition, it includes the positions of the Union of Greek Shipowners regarding the developments and challenges facing the "present" and the "future" of the sector, with an emphasis on decarbonization, European shipping policy, maritime safety, and the crucial role of seafarers.
Greece remains the world’s leading shipping power, with a fleet of nearly 5,800 vessels representing over 19% of global tonnage.
Greek shipping accounts for 61% of the European Union’s merchant fleet, which constitutes a strong strategic advantage for the continent’s autonomy and resilience.
Greek shipping is leading the industry’s energy transition, with ever-increasing investments in new ships that incorporate the most advanced energy-saving technologies.
Greek shipping remains a national asset for Greece, directly and indirectly accounting for 7–8% of the country’s GDP and providing approximately 200,000 jobs.
The 2025–2026 Annual Report also highlights the strong social impact of Greek shipping. More specifically, it highlights the Hellenic Shipping Federation’s Action Plan for Thessaly, “Agios Nikolaos, ” under which the restoration and reconstruction of 33 school buildings was completed. Furthermore, the commitment to the vision "SHIPPING + SOCIETY ALWAYS TOGETHER" is highlighted, including through the EEE’s expanded scholarship program “SYN-ENOSIS for Education +100 SCHOLARSHIPS, ” which will offer 365 scholarships for the 2026–2027 academic year, empowering the next generation every day.
In her foreword to the Report, Hellenic Shipping Federation President Melina Traoulou emphasizes:
“In an era of growing uncertainty, shipping reaffirms its timeless role as a force for continuity, stability, and global cohesion.
Amid this challenging environment, Greek shipping has maintained its leading position internationally, reaffirming its strategic importance, reliability, and resilience.
Our strength remains our unity. With a common strategy, institutional consistency, and collective responsibility, Greek shipping will continue to lead the world’s seas and contribute substantially to shaping the future of global shipping.
Always a Pioneer. Always a Leader.”
* See the report in the Related Materials section.