Overview
- German shipbuilders achieved a record €10 billion in civilian order intake last year, reflecting strong demand despite broader economic difficulties.
- The industry employs approximately 200,000 people nationwide and generates around €40 billion in annual revenue.
- Naval shipbuilding and repair sectors remain strong, with industry leaders emphasizing their strategic importance amid global security threats.
- China now accounts for two-thirds of global civilian shipbuilding orders, with its tonnage growing from 1.5 million GRT in 2002 to over 20 million today.
- Chinese military expansion, including plans to develop naval capabilities to seize Taiwan by 2027, is viewed as a serious concern by German industry leaders.