At the annual SMM Hamburg expo, Estonia’s digital expertise in e-navigation systems takes centre stage, showcasing how innovations streamline maritime operations. This focus on digitalisation aligns closely with Germany’s ambition to lead in intelligent shipping, where technology-driven efficiencies are transforming the maritime sector.

Estonia’s solutions, like advanced cybersecurity and blockchain, perfectly complement Germany’s drive for secure, efficient, and sustainable shipping practices, highlighting the potential for deeper collaboration between the two countries.

Trade Estonia interviewed Tiina Kivikas, an export advisor for the German market, to discuss Estonia’s added-value solutions for the German maritime sector.

Tiina Kivikas, export advisor for the German market, answers the questions:

Estonia has gained considerable recognition in the maritime industry, particularly within the Baltic Sea region. What makes the country stand out in this sector?

Tiina Kivikas: Estonia has truly positioned itself as a leader in maritime innovation, especially in digital solutions. They were quick to adopt e-navigation systems, significantly streamlining maritime operations.

Estonia’s expertise in integrating advanced technologies like blockchain and cybersecurity into its maritime infrastructure is particularly impressive. As a result, it is often viewed as a model for other countries in the region. Estonia’s strategic adoption of cutting-edge technologies has been key to its success in modernising maritime operations.

Germany has been heavily focused on sustainability in recent years. How does Estonia align with these goals?

Estonia is absolutely on the same page as Germany regarding sustainability. They have made significant strides in adopting cleaner fuels and energy-efficient technologies, which are crucial for reducing the environmental impact of maritime activities.

Estonia’s commitment to environmental protection, particularly in the Baltic Sea, has been noteworthy. For instance, their active role in regional initiatives like the Protection of Marine Environment project, supported by the Ministry of Climate of Estonia, highlights their dedication to safeguarding this delicate ecosystem.

This alignment in environmental goals strengthens the partnership between the two countries, fostering cooperation and shared responsibility for the Baltic region.

Estonia’s maritime industry stands out as a key player in global trade, particularly within the Baltic Sea region. With 4,000 kilometers of coastline and over 500 exporting maritime companies, the sector is known for being technologically advanced and environmentally sustainable.

What role does education and a skilled workforce play in Estonia’s maritime sector?

Estonia’s strong focus on maritime education and workforce development is a cornerstone of its success. The quality of its maritime academies is exceptional, producing a highly skilled workforce well-prepared to support the innovative and efficient maritime sector Estonia has cultivated.

Additionally, Estonia’s involvement in joint research projects with German institutions is something we value highly. This collaboration advances collective knowledge in areas like marine science and digital navigation, benefiting both countries and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the maritime industry.

The global maritime industry has recently faced significant challenges. How has Estonia managed to overcome these issues?

Estonia’s maritime industry has shown remarkable resilience and adaptability in the face of global challenges. Whether dealing with economic shifts or new technological demands, Estonia has responded quickly. Their digital-first approach has proven particularly advantageous, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

By leveraging remote technologies and digital solutions, Estonia managed to keep its maritime operations running smoothly, even when physical presence was limited. This adaptability and ability to maintain continuity under difficult circumstances is one of Estonia’s greatest strengths in the maritime sector.

How does the Estonian maritime sector’s participation contribute to the overall diversity and richness of SMM Hamburg, especially within the German market?

The Estonian maritime sector plays a significant role in enriching both its economy and global maritime engagement.

Estonia’s strategic location on the Baltic Sea positions it as a key player in regional shipping and logistics. Additionally, Estonia’s expertise in digital technologies, particularly maritime innovation like e-navigation and smart ports, contributes to the sector’s technological diversity.

Estonia’s active involvement in international maritime organisations, such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the HELCOM – Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission (HELCOM), reflects its commitment to global maritime governance. This international cooperation strengthens the maritime industry as a whole, bringing fresh perspectives and advanced technological solutions to the table.

What key highlights or milestones have the Estonian maritime sector recently achieved in the German market?

Estonia has achieved several significant milestones within the German market in recent years. One of the most notable is the Tallink Grupp expansion. Tallink have intensified passengers traffic between Germany and Estonia via combi tickets over Sweden and Finland.

Estonia has also been heavily involved in green shipping initiatives, promoting sustainable practices like the adoption of cleaner fuels and energy-efficient vessels. These efforts align well with Germany’s focus on sustainability. Estonian companies like SRC Group, working on projects such as Methanol Superstorage and ShoreLink, which specializes in shore power and charging solutions for various vessel types, are at the forefront of creating a greener maritime landscape.

Estonia’s BLRT Grupp has recently launched the country’s largest floating dock, a 180-meter-long facility designed for ship repair. This state-of-the-art dock significantly boosts Estonia’s maritime capabilities and positions the country as a competitive force in the European ship repair market. For Germany, with its focus on green shipping and maritime technology, this development highlights Estonia as a strategic partner in ship repair, innovation, and sustainability, providing opportunities for collaboration in the Baltic region.

Estonia’s maritime strengths include digital innovation, a collaborative ecosystem, and a supportive business environment. Additionally, the country emphasizes tailor-made solutions, such as smart ports and eco-friendly technologies, helping to shape the future of shipping and logistics.

How does the Estonian maritime sector’s presence at SMM Hamburg align with broader industry trends or themes, particularly within the German market?

Estonia’s presence aligns perfectly with several key industry trends that are also top priorities in Germany.

Estonia’s integration of blockchain for secure maritime transactions and their advanced cybersecurity solutions are other areas that resonate well with German companies, who are keen to secure their supply chains and protect against cyber threats. The Estonian Maritime Single Window (EMSW), a digital platform that simplifies the submission of information by ships entering and exiting Estonian ports, and the Vessel Traffic Management and Information System (VTMIS), which optimizes traffic flow, are both prime examples of Estonia’s forward-thinking contributions to the global maritime sector.

At the SMM Hamburg 2024 expo, Estonian companies will present innovative solutions in shipbuilding, repair, and sustainable maritime technologies.

Featured companies on the Estonian stand include:

• Adretec – specializes in maintenance and reconditioning services for maritime and industrial sectors, utilizing advanced laser cladding technology to provide efficient on-site and workshop-based solutions.
• EST Flag – Estonia’s maritime sector offers a modern and efficient environment for shipping companies, featuring advanced ship registers, state aid benefits, and digital solutions that streamline interactions between private and public sectors.
• Estonian Marine and Manufacturing Initiative – EMI – represents a collective of Estonian companies in the shipbuilding sector, known for their trust, quality, flexibility, and commitment to meeting high international standards while contributing to the industry’s growth both nationally and globally.
• ProForce Industry – provides specialized workforce solutions for maritime and industrial projects across Europe, focusing on welding, assembly, and installation services.
• Pentamet – specializes in designing and manufacturing high-quality metallic expansion joints for the energy sector, adhering to E.J.M.A standards and offering a wide range of customizable products.
• ShoreLink – specializes in developing and manufacturing customized shore power and charging solutions for various vessel types, focusing on decarbonizing port areas and promoting sustainability in the maritime industry across multiple countries.
• Varcus Solutions Ltd. – AEGIR XR Training platform offers innovative virtual and augmented reality solutions for maritime and offshore training, aiming to enhance sea safety through advanced VR/AR/MR technologies.
• SRC Group – specializes in providing comprehensive EPCI solutions for marine and offshore projects, offering tailored design, engineering, technical, electrical, and interior refit services.
• Marmi Futerno – specializes in high-quality stone fabrication and installation for luxury interiors, with a growing focus on the cruise ship and hotel segments.
• Insta Globe Engineering – specializes in providing comprehensive marine and offshore electrical services, including installation, commissioning, and project management for automation systems and navigational equipment.

SMM Hamburg 2024 has also other various Estonian companies joining, like Baltic Workboats Ltd, BLRT Grupp, ESB Service Group, ITK Marine, LTH-Baas, Tammer

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