The Spanish-flagged merchant fleet has seen a dramatic reduction, now sitting at just 84 vessels and 1.7 million gross tonnage (GT) by the end of 2025, according to provisional figures. This notable decrease is part of a worrying trend highlighted for nearly a decade by ANAVE, the Spanish Shipping Association, illustrating the declining competitiveness of the Spanish flag within the European maritime sector.
Background and Context
The decline of the Spanish merchant fleet is not a sudden development. Over the years, the Spanish Special Register of the Canary Islands (REC) has been losing its competitive edge to other European registers offering more favourable conditions. The Portuguese registry of Madeira, in particular, has emerged as a popular choice, registering approximately 60 Spanish-owned vessels, accounting for around 1 million GT.
This trend is concerning, especially as merchant fleets are viewed as strategic assets crucial for supply security and the resilience of foreign trade. However, the lack of competitiveness of the Spanish flag has driven shipowners to opt for foreign flags, which provide advantages in terms of costs and administrative burdens.
In-Depth Technical Analysis
Impact on Gross Tonnage and Deadweight Tonnage
The 16% decrease in gross tonnage and a 20% reduction in deadweight tonnage reflect a significant loss of capacity, particularly within the LNG carrier segment. The reduction of three vessels in this category has substantially contributed to these figures, affecting the transport capacity for liquefied gases under the Spanish flag.
Competitiveness of European Registries
Registries such as those in Madeira, Malta, and Cyprus have tailored their fiscal and administrative frameworks to attract shipowners, offering substantial advantages over the REC. Administrative efficiency, coupled with attractive fiscal and labour conditions, are key factors that have led many shipowners to choose these registries.
Implications for Maritime Professionals
For maritime professionals in Spain, this trend suggests a more competitive job market with potentially fewer opportunities under the national flag. Deck and engine officers, along with other professionals, may need to adapt to working under different regulations and operational standards of foreign registries.
Labour Market Impact
The decline in the Spanish-flagged merchant fleet could lead to a decreased demand for officers and crew for vessels registered in Spain. However, the increasing preference for registries like Madeira might open up opportunities in those markets. Professionals must be prepared to adapt to the working conditions and regulations of these registries.
Global Context
Globally, the competitiveness of maritime registries is influenced by factors such as environmental regulations and port congestion. The ability of a registry to offer attractive conditions to shipowners is crucial in a global trade environment facing significant challenges.
Future Outlook
In the short term, the trend of registering under foreign flags is expected to continue unless effective measures are implemented to enhance the competitiveness of the Spanish flag. Critical factors include reducing administrative burdens and improving fiscal and labour frameworks.
FAQ
- Why has the Spanish-flagged merchant fleet declined? The lack of competitiveness of the Spanish flag compared to more attractive foreign registries has led to a reduction in the number of vessels.
- Which registries are gaining popularity among Spanish shipowners? The Portuguese registry of Madeira, along with Malta and Cyprus, is seeing increased numbers of Spanish vessels being registered.
- How does this trend affect maritime professionals? There may be fewer opportunities under the Spanish flag, but more under foreign registries, requiring adaptation to new regulations.
This news is based on “The tonnage registered under the Spanish flag reaches a historic low in 25 years” from Anave, accessible at original link.
Legal Notice: This article is an independent editorial analysis based on public information and maritime industry expertise. It does not substitute for consultation with qualified professionals nor does it constitute specific technical, legal, regulatory, or professional advice.
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Editorial Note: This article has been adapted from Spanish to British English
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