UK Shipping Industry ranked 5th globally in new competitiveness index
The UK Chamber of Shipping has today published a major new report by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (Cebr), confirming the UK’s position as one of the world’s most competitive maritime nations.
The report, launched at the start of London International Shipping Week, introduces the Shipping Competitiveness Index, a ground-breaking international benchmark assessing 44 maritime countries that together represent over 80% of globally owned deadweight tonnage.
The UK ranks 5th overall in the index, maintaining its position over the last decade and demonstrating resilience in the face of geopolitical instability, Brexit, and the global pandemic.
Key pillars of the UK’s strong performance include
- Regulatory Environment and Governance (4th overall): The UK’s strongest pillar, driven by top scores in flag performance, regulatory transparency, and market openness.
- Fleet and Capital (5th) and Workforce (9th): The UK has a competitive fleet and deep capital markets, with a quality seafarer supply. However, workforce development and immigration flexibility remain areas for improvement.
- Trade Competitiveness (8th): Strong export and connectivity scores are offset by weaker logistics performance and higher transport costs, highlighting the need for infrastructure upgrades and improved border efficiency.
Commenting on the findings of the index, Rhett Hatcher, CEO of the UK Chamber of Shipping, said: “Shipping is the lifeblood of our island economy—powering trade, connecting communities, and underpinning every sector from energy and manufacturing to tourism and retail.
“This landmark report confirms what we in the industry work so hard to achieve: the UK remains one of the world’s leading maritime nations. Our leadership in regulation, high-value maritime services, and legal and insurance expertise continues to set us apart.
“But competitive status is not static—it must be earned and re-earned. As the report shows, we face growing challenges, from global fleet renewal and decarbonisation to offshore energy transition and workforce constraints. We must respond with ambition and clarity—investing in innovative projects for infrastructure and skills, while working with government to deliver a coherent, future-facing strategy.
“The UK Chamber of Shipping is committed to that mission. Together, we can build a greener, more resilient, and globally competitive shipping industry that delivers prosperity across every region of the UK.”
Owen Good, Head of Economic Advisory at Cebr, added: “Our findings highlight the UK’s continued attractiveness as a major international shipping centre, with the country placing fifth on our novel Shipping Competitiveness Index. The UK’s strong placement is underpinned by a strong regulatory environment with transparent regulation and low barriers to entry, deep capital markets, as well as a strong maritime services sector.
"To consolidate the UK’s global standing and futureproof the sector amid growing competition and transition pressures, targeted reforms will be needed to address challenges such as infrastructure gaps, workforce renewal, and maritime decarbonisation.”
Strategic Recommendations are:
- Consolidate UK leadership in regulation, legal services, and green shipping.
- Unlock infrastructure investment by streamlining planning and grid connections.
- Expand green finance through instruments like green loan guarantees.
- Modernise workforce policy with responsive immigration and enhanced training.
The report also explores strategic themes affecting UK competitiveness, including tonnage tax, decarbonisation, labour market dynamics, and offshore energy.
The report is launched at the opening of London International Shipping Week, at a high profile industry event entitled, ‘Setting a Course for Growth: Exploring the competitiveness of the UK as a destination for shipping business’ with experts and industry leaders discussing the report finding.
The full report is available here The Competitiveness of the UK Shipping Industry | UK Chamber of Shipping