Home to more than 100 Hellenic shipping companies, London, as an international maritime services center, is facing one of its biggest challenges lately. The British government's intentions of increasing taxation of non-domicile, as well as imposing a proposed 30,000 pounds annual levy, could mark the exodus of shipping companies, who have chosen London, exactly because of the attractive tax environment and the proximity to a range of services, including shipping insurance companies, law firms, bankers and charterers.
In an attempt to lure some of Hellas' most prominent shipping families back into the country, the Minister of Mercantile Shipping, Mr. George Voulgarakis decided to visit on an urgent manner the British capital and meet with the board of Union of Greek Ship -owners and the Greek Shipping Cooperation Committee, the institution which represents the Hellenic shipping companies based in the U.K. The two leading shipping bodies were holding their annual meeting and for the first time in history a Minister of Shipping was present. This symbolic move signaled the Ministry's goal of attracting as many of the U.K.-based shippers back to Piraeus. After all, it is estimated that these companies control approximately 20% of the Hellenic-owned fleet, while in 2007 only, their total turnover of activities reached about $30 billion.
''We are interested in turning Piraeus into a global maritime center and I've asked from ship owners in London and Hellas to increase their presence in seas by raising more Hellenic flags in their vessels. At the same time, I explained them that we are willing to undertake the necessary measures, which will attract more ship owners in Piraeus, where already more than 1,200 shipping companies operate. It's important to state that not only Hellenic shipping companies, but also others from different origins are more than welcome to Piraeus, in order for our country, to be able to capitalize on its leading position, as the world No1 shipping force, controlling more than 3,700 vessels'' said Mr. Voulgarakis.
His words were not accidental. It is estimated that shipping contributes about $2 million on an hourly basis to the country's economy. But, besides talking, Mr. Voulgarakis seeked to guarantee the proper business environment, especially in terms of taxing and legislation. To do that, the Ministry is on the verge of introducing a new bill on creating a maritime cluster, based on international standards, but also taking into account Hellas' variables.
From the Committee's behalf, President, Mr. Epaminondas Empirikos pointed out that the meeting was very successful, by saying that ''we had the chance to exchange views and thoughts with the Minister and he had the opportunity to listen to our conversation with the Union of Greek Shipowners on various issues. It was the first time that a Minister of Mercantile Shipping was present to such a meeting, which indicated that Mr Voulgarakis is interested in Hellenic shipping and knows the matter in depth, which is very important and pleasant'' he concluded. |
