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Understand the critical importance and overlooked potential of the shipping industry in economic development, employability and national security.
A marine industry plays an important role in the economic development and security of many nations around the world. The commander of Brazil's navy, Marcos Sampaio Olse, in a recent interview with Canal Livre da Band argued that the governments must protect and promote the structural and technological development of the naval industry. Because since 2014 (when Lava-Jato operations were launched), there has been a lot of job loss in the sector.
However, it is an area that is often neglected and underestimated by governments. Watch the admiral's statement in the BAND video below:
The rich and prestigious history of the shipping industry
The industrial policy announced by the federal government at the time played a significant role in this decline. The measures adopted were not enough to sustain the sector, leading to a gradual reduction in activities in the shipping industry. This is concerning, especially considering the potential that shipbuilding has to create jobs and promote economic development.
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The strong contribution of the shipping industry to the economy
Shipyards employ a wide range of workers, from highly skilled engineers to assembly line workers, providing employment opportunities in a variety of areas.
The growing pre-salt exploration has generated a continuous demand for a variety of vessels and platforms, fueling national production and encouraging the modernization of existing shipyards and equipment. Furthermore, the increase in international trade has driven the need for maritime cargo transport, further contributing to the positive dynamics of the sector.
Despite these advances, challenges persist. Global competition is fierce, requiring continuous investment in technology and innovation to maintain competitiveness, mainly under demands from Brazilian Navyl. Furthermore, issues such as bureaucracy and the need for additional government incentives still require attention to ensure the sector's full development.
Furthermore, shipbuilding requires a variety of materials and services, benefiting related industries such as metallurgy and the chemical industry.
In the program Rede Bandeirantes Free Channel journalist Fernando Miter highlighted that until 2014 the industry was doing well, but began to lose strength.
The navy commander, Marcos Sampaio Onse, agreed, saying that the sector lost 60 thousand empregos and it is a strategic sector.
“The State has to protect the naval industry, which involves construction, maintenance and green disposal. Today we do not find shipyards in Brazil with the competence to carry out green scrapping. In fact, it is crucial for a country that is absolutely dependent on maritime traffic for its exports to have a robust shipbuilding sector,” he said.
National security and Brazilian Navy
The ability to build, maintain and operate a strong naval fleet is essential to a country's national security. Warships, submarines and patrol vessels are key to protecting maritime borders, ensure the security of trade routes and respond to humanitarian emergencies and natural disasters.
Depending exclusively on foreign ships to meet defense needs can compromise the sovereignty and security of a nation, in addition to leaving the Brazilian Navy with its hands tied. Therefore, governments have a responsibility to maintain a robust shipping industry to ensure self-sufficiency and military readiness.
Innovation and technology
The shipping industry It is a source of innovation and technological advancement. The search for energy efficiency, safety and sustainability has driven the development of new technologies, such as ships powered by renewable energy, advanced propulsion systems and more efficient construction methods. By investing in the naval industry, governments encourage research and development, boosting the knowledge economy and strengthening global competitiveness.
It is essential that authorities understand the strategic importance of marine industry and adopt policies that protect and promote it. This goes beyond ship construction; It also includes the maintenance, modernization and even sustainable decommissioning of vessels. The lack of capacity to handle ship decommissioning in an environmentally responsible way is an example of the challenges facing the sector.
Regional development
Os Shipyards are often centers of economic activity in coastal and port regions. They provide direct employment and stimulate the development of local infrastructure and services. The conservation of marine industry It is therefore essential to sustain communities and promote balanced regional development.
Therefore, it is crucial that the government establishes clear and effective policies to revitalize the marine industry Brazilian. This will benefit the sector itself and contribute to the national economy, promoting employment, stimulating innovation and strengthening security and safety. country's sovereignty.
