Context

France is one of the most important maritime and river transport markets in Europe, the 5th biggest port nation in Europe with 564 ports, 360MT of goods processed per year, 30M passengers per year, +560 registered merchant and service vessels and more +1000 ferries for river transport.

With 8,500 km of navigable network, more than 80% of which is used for transporting goods or passengers, France is the 4th biggest country with the most used navigable network.

As of 2024, the various French registers is comprised of 428 commercial fleet vessels, and about the same under foreign registers, active in the ferry sector, fuel transport & offshore activities (CTV, SOV, IV…)

With strong political and financial commitments to reach net zero by 2050, France will need to drastically adapt its maritime value chain while relying on industry proven innovative technologies. Norwegian actors and stakeholders have historically been at the forefront of the Green maritime shift, and must play a role in helping France meet its ambitions.

The port of Marseille-Fos is the first port of France with 4M passengers and 72MT of goods processed in 2023. Historically a major petrochemical port, it has developed vectors for growth, particularly by diversifying into other sectors, such as containers and passenger vessels. This diversification was driven by the willingness to address environmental issues and investing in greener solutions.

What to expect

The forum is hosted by Innovation Norway (Norwegian Government's official trade promotion organization), the Maritime and Fluvial Association of Marseille (UMF), and the Shipowner Association of Marseille (CMAF).

We are eager to showcase experiences on proven green maritime solutions, ranging from port charging infrastructures, green passenger vessels and shipping, along with how to finance the transition towards net-zero.

The forum will consist of morning round tables, keynotes and pitches, in the presence of French port authorities, shipowners, policy makers, financial institutions, public authorities, national and local government representatives. It will be followed by a cocktail-lunch and dedicated B2B sessions.