International Development

The maritime industry is a truly global industry which benefits the industrialised and developing nations alike. Ships are the means by which the goods produced in developing countries reach the markets. Shipping assists in the alleviating the poverty of many around the world.

Maritime activity currently provides an important source of income for many developing countries. Ship registration provides a considerable source of income, as does the supply of ship’s crews and the provision of port services. The Philippines, for example, is the leading supplier of ship’s crews. More than 20% of all seafarers come from this great maritime nation.

Technical co-operation is a developing area in which the maritime industry tries to make a difference. This is the process by which the nations with a great experience in maritime matters provide technical assistance to developing nations. One such area is that of Search and Rescue in which advice and guidance is provided to ensure that SAR provision is improved in certain parts of the world. Another is in the area of security where nations provide technical assistance to reduce the incidence of piracy.  The International Maritime Organization co-ordinates technical assistance through its Technical Co-operation Division.