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A thousand years of expertise

Industry Reports by Synergy Media Specialists

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Nordic Bulk Carrier's NSR Barents Ice. Shipping plays a key part in Denmark's economy

With one of Europe's longest coastlines and surrounded by more than 400 islands, Denmark's history, culture and traditions have always been connected to the sea. Just as Denmark's economy remains tied to the international maritime industry, the country is continuing to strengthen its economic ties with China, which has become the world's greatest exporter of manufactured products. China's economic growth offers tremendous opportunities for merchant navies worldwide.

Beginning in the ninth century, the Viking Age flourished for 300 years as the Danes explored and traded with the outside world, travelling as far to the east as Russia and Turkey, and using sea and inland waterway routes. Denmark established a prized shipbuilding tradition, a foundation on which the country has built its maritime industry.

While the Danes have shifted the manufacturing of their vessels to shipyards in Japan, South Korea and China, the Danish shipping industry remains strong and internationally competitive.

The phrase "Blue Denmark" refers to the shipping, ports, shipyards and equipment and service suppliers who cover the maritime supply chain. These industries work in partnership to ensure that Danish maritime excellence remains at a world-class level.

Peter Bjerregaard, managing director of the Danish Shipowners' Association, says: "Shipping is a driving factor within Denmark's economy. Blue Denmark employs around 100,000 people and generates a quarter of Denmark's export earnings."

The Danish Maritime Authority acts as a representative body under the Danish Ministry of Economic and Business Affairs and plays an important role in maintaining and developing Denmark's role as a leading maritime nation. "Our core strength as a shipping nation is the synergy created between Danish companies working together to drive the cluster forward," says Andreas Nordseth, director general of the Danish Maritime Authority.

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