On October 30th, Geneva, Switzerland, the “Opportunity Portugal – Blue Economy” meeting was held, organized by AICEP Portugal Global in collaboration with the Swiss Shipowner Association and the Embassy of Portugal in Bern. This event brought together representatives from several entities in the maritime sector in Portugal, including DGRM, represented by the Deputy Director General, Ricardo Segurado, and the Director of Maritime Administration Services, Paulo Pamplona.

The opening session was led by the Ambassador of Portugal in Bern, Júlio Vilela, who welcomed the participants and outlined the objectives of the meeting.

DGRM presented a detailed overview of maritime administration in Portugal, the challenges of implementing the new IMO and #EU regulations within the scope of the energy transition applicable to Portuguese-flagged ships and the importance of the International Ship Registry of Madeira and its positioning at a global level and in the European context. Other topics covered included the tax regime in Madeira, labor costs and regulatory standards, with comparisons between other European brands. Projects for offshore wind energy, alternative fuels, digitalization and innovation, and investments in port terminals were also presented.

The meeting also provided a comprehensive overview of innovation in the maritime sector, highlighting research and development in maritime technologies, HubAzul and Campus do Mar, and free technology zones.